Although Andy Cole acknowledged that the fan acclaim was “too much” in Tyneside, he rejected the notion that he did not enjoy his time at Newcastle United.
When the Magpies traded Cole to Manchester United in January 1995 for £7 million, the supporters were devastated. Because the Red Devils were viewed as a direct opponent, Kevin Keegan famously gave an explanation for the decision on the steps of St. James’ Park.
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With 68 goals in 84 games, Cole helped Newcastle win promotion and went on to finish third in their first Premier League season the following year. A remarkable 41 goals in all competitions, with no penalties, continue to stand as a Toon record.
Cole went on to win five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League until Sir Alex Ferguson called and the rest is history. Nevertheless, there has been much discussion over whether the 52-year-old remembers St. James’ Park fondly.
Cole has rubbished those suggestions – insisting he “enjoyed” his two years under Keegan – but was left baffled by his idol-like status. He told The Rest Is Football podcast: “I loved my time at Manchester United but I would never take away from the fact I enjoyed a great time at Newcastle – regardless of all the nonsense people have said. I enjoyed it.
“(People saying) I wasn’t happy there and the adulation for me, I was like ‘this is crazy, I only play football’. However you look at it, I only play football, I’m no different to anybody else. I remember when I first went to Newcastle I remember Clarky (Lee Clark) saying what it was going to be like and I was saying it can’t be that bad, surely not.
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