Newcastle United are rapidly closing in on securing a return to European competition for the first time in a decade.
There was once a time, not so long ago, when facing European visitors under the St James Park floodlights was commonplace and United’s entry in the Champions League, UEFA Cup, Cup Winners Cup and, yes, even the Intertoto Cup, seemed to be an annual event.
The memories have flowed in the houses of Magpies supporters as they relieved some magical moments in the club’s history that have come against opposition from the continent. From Bobby Moncur lifting the Fairs Cup on a balmy night in Budapest to Bellamy late winner at Feyenoord sending Sir Bobby Robson’s Magpies in the Champions League record books.
So with a return to European competition now looking closer than ever, NewcastleWorld thought it was a good time to relive ten of the best moments witnessed by United supporters against some eye-catching opponents.
1. ng the UEFA Champions League First Phase Group E match between Feyenoord and Newcastle United on November 13, 2002 played at the De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam, Holland. Newcastle United won the match 3-2. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Craig Bellamy scores a dramatic Champions League winner over Feyenoord in November 2002. Photo: Stu Forster
2. 1970/71: Fairs Cup - Newcastle United 2-0 Inter Milan
After battling to a 1-1 draw in the first leg in the San Siro, Newcastle saw off the Italian giants as Bob Moncur and Wyn Davies netted on a stormy night at the Gallowgate as the frustrated visitors lost their discipline. Photo: Getty Images
3. 2002/03: Champions League - Inter Milan 2-2 Newcastle United
A stunning away support descended on the San Siro and saw the Magpies put in a heroic display as Alan Shearer’s brace earned them a 2-2 draw against an Inter side containing the likes of Javier Zanetti and Christian Vieri. Photo: Getty Images
4. 1968/69: UEFA Fairs Cup - Newcastle United 4-0 Feyenoord
The Magpies produced a stunning display on the European debut as ‘Pop’ Robson, Wyn Davies, Tommy Gibb and Jimmy Scott all netted in a 4-0 win against Dutch giants Feyenoord. Photo: Getty Images