On 7 October, Newcastle United will celebrate the anniversary of the departure of their unpopular owner Mike Ashley.
When Ashley bought Newcastle, he inherited a team that had only been playing UEFA Cup football just two months prior to his arrival in May 2007.
In the years leading up to his takeover the Magpies had regularly competed in either the UEFA Cup or the Champions League and had even flirted with the Premier League title under both Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson.
But Ashley's years in large represented a dark chapter in Newcastle’s history as they suffered relegation from the Premier League on two separate occasions whilst only finishing inside the top half of the Premier League on three occasions.
However, there were still some memorable moments along the way including two Championship title triumphs, a fifth place finish against the odds and an adventure into the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
With that in mind, we take a look back at the best combined 11 of players to have represented Newcastle during the Mike Ashley era.
This list is based solely on the player’s performances during Ashley’s time at the club. Therefore the likes of goalkeeper Shay Given who thrived before his arrival, and Joelinton who has enjoyed a redemption since his departure have not been included in this XI.
9. RM: Allan Saint-Maximin
Another attacking French maverick, Allan Saint-Maximin joined Newcastle from Nice in 2019 and was one of the main bright sparks in the team during a difficult period under Steve Bruce. Saint-Maximin played his part in helping Newcastle reach the Champions League under Eddie Howe, but due to the harsh constraints of FFP was sold last summer to Saudi Arabia. | Getty Images
10. ST: Demba Ba
Signed on a free transfer, Demba Ba is another who will be remembered as one of the great signings of the Mike Ashley era. During his 18-month spell on Tyneside, the Senegalese international netted an impressive 29 goals in 54 league appearances before moving on for just £7m to Chelsea due to a release clause which had been placed in his contract. | Getty Images
11. ST: Papiss Cisse
When it comes to hitting the ground running, there are few Newcastle players who have quite the impact of Papiss Cisse, who registered an incredible 13 goals in his first 14 games, with nearly all of them being screamers. The Senegalese international for a time formed one of the most feared partnerships in the league alongside Demba Ba and played a major role in firing the Magpies to Europe. His form never reached the same standards for the remainder of his stay but he still boasted a steady record of 37 goals in 117 league matches. | Getty Images