Newcastle United's 1996-97 Squad: Where Are They Now?

The 1996-97 season holds a special place in the hearts of Newcastle United fans. Under the management of Kevin Keegan, the team, affectionately known as "The Entertainers," captivated audiences with their attacking style of play and exciting matches. Although they didn't win any major trophies that season, the memories of the thrilling games and the personalities in the squad remain vivid. Let's take a trip down memory lane and see what the key members of that Newcastle United squad are up to now.

The Magicians Between the Posts

Goalkeepers are the unsung heroes, and Newcastle had some memorable ones. Shaka Hislop was the primary goalkeeper during that season, bringing a sense of calm and reliability to the backline. Hislop's career continued with spells at West Ham United, Portsmouth, and FC Dallas before he retired. Today, Shaka Hislop is a prominent pundit for ESPN, offering insightful analysis on football matches. His experience and knowledge make him a respected voice in the footballing world.

Pavel Srníček, another goalkeeper in the squad, was a beloved figure at Newcastle. His warm personality and dedication to the club endeared him to the fans. After leaving Newcastle, Srníček played for several other clubs before returning for a brief spell in 2006. Sadly, Pavel Srníček passed away in 2015, but his memory lives on among Newcastle supporters. His contribution to the club is fondly remembered, and he remains a legend in the eyes of many.

Defensive Stalwarts

A solid defense is the backbone of any successful team. At Newcastle, the 1996-97 squad boasted some strong and reliable defenders. Philippe Albert, known for his adventurous runs and spectacular goals (remember that lob against Manchester United?), was a key figure in the defense. After leaving Newcastle, Albert played for Fulham and Charleroi. Today, he is involved in business ventures and occasionally appears as a football pundit, sharing his insights and memories of his time at Newcastle.

Darren Peacock, another central defender, brought a no-nonsense approach to the backline. His tough tackling and aerial ability made him a formidable opponent for any striker. After retiring from football, Peacock has been involved in various business ventures. Warren Barton, a right-back, was known for his energy and commitment. Barton went on to play for Derby County and Queens Park Rangers after leaving Newcastle. He is now a football analyst for Fox Sports, providing commentary and analysis on matches.

Midfield Maestros

The midfield is where games are won and lost, and Newcastle's midfield in 1996-97 was full of talent and creativity. Peter Beardsley, a true Newcastle legend, was a key figure in midfield. His vision, passing ability, and goals made him a fan favorite. After retiring, Beardsley worked as a coach at Newcastle United's academy. However, his coaching career was marred by allegations of racism and bullying, leading to his departure from the club.

David Batty, a tough-tackling midfielder, brought steel and determination to the team. His combative style of play made him a formidable opponent. After retiring, Batty has stayed out of the public eye, preferring to live a quiet life away from football. Rob Lee, another midfielder, was known for his energy and goal-scoring ability. Lee continued to play football for several other clubs before retiring. He now works as a pundit and commentator, sharing his views on the game.

The Fearsome Forwards

Newcastle's attack in 1996-97 was one of the most exciting in the Premier League. Les Ferdinand, a prolific goalscorer, led the line with his aerial prowess and clinical finishing. After leaving Newcastle, Ferdinand played for Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Leicester City, and Bolton Wanderers. He has since worked as a coach and pundit, remaining involved in the game.

Alan Shearer, the local hero and Newcastle's all-time leading goalscorer, was at the peak of his powers. His goals and leadership inspired the team and the fans. After retiring, Shearer became a television pundit for the BBC, where he provides expert analysis on Premier League matches. Shearer remains an iconic figure at Newcastle United and is revered by the fans.

Faustino Asprilla, the Colombian forward, added flair and unpredictability to the attack. His skills and goals made him an instant hit with the fans. After leaving Newcastle, Asprilla played for several other clubs before retiring. He has since been involved in various business ventures and occasionally appears as a football pundit.

The Impact of Kevin Keegan

No discussion of the 1996-97 Newcastle United squad would be complete without mentioning Kevin Keegan. As the manager, Keegan instilled a sense of belief and excitement in the team. His attacking philosophy and charismatic personality made him a popular figure on Tyneside. After leaving Newcastle, Keegan managed Fulham, England, and Manchester City. He has since retired from management but remains a respected figure in football.

The 1996-97 Newcastle United squad may not have won any major trophies, but they left an indelible mark on the hearts of football fans. Their exciting style of play and the personalities in the squad made them one of the most memorable teams in Premier League history. While the players have moved on to different paths, their legacy lives on, and their contributions to Newcastle United are fondly remembered. The memories of that season continue to bring joy and nostalgia to Newcastle supporters around the world.

More than just Players: The Team Spirit

Beyond the individual talents, what truly defined the 1996-97 Newcastle United squad was their unwavering team spirit. The players genuinely enjoyed playing together, and this camaraderie was evident on the pitch. They fought for each other, celebrated together, and supported each other through thick and thin. This bond created a special atmosphere at St. James' Park, making it a fortress for the Magpies.

Keegan fostered this team spirit by creating a positive and supportive environment. He encouraged the players to express themselves and play with freedom. He also built a strong connection with the fans, making them feel like an integral part of the team. This unity between the players, the manager, and the fans was a key factor in the team's success.

Lasting Legacy

The legacy of the 1996-97 Newcastle United squad extends far beyond the trophies they did or didn't win. They redefined the Premier League with their attacking football and entertained fans around the world. They inspired a generation of young footballers and created memories that will last a lifetime. The spirit of "The Entertainers" continues to inspire Newcastle United teams to this day.

While the squad members have moved on to different chapters in their lives, their connection to Newcastle United remains strong. Many of them still visit St. James' Park, attend club events, and interact with the fans. They are forever part of the Newcastle United family, and their contributions to the club will never be forgotten. The story of the 1996-97 squad serves as a reminder that football is more than just a game; it's about passion, camaraderie, and creating lasting memories.

Where are the Other Squad Members Now?

While we've covered some of the most prominent names, the 1996-97 Newcastle United squad included other players who played their part. So, where are some of the other squad members now? Players like Steve Watson, Alessandro Pistone, and Keith Gillespie also contributed to the team's efforts. Steve Watson, a versatile player who could play in defense and midfield, went on to have a successful career with other clubs before moving into coaching. Alessandro Pistone, the Italian left-back, faced injury challenges later in his career and eventually returned to Italy. Keith Gillespie, the winger known for his pace and crossing ability, played for several other clubs and has also been involved in media work.

It's fascinating to see how these players' careers unfolded after their time at Newcastle. Some continued to play at the highest level, while others pursued different paths. Regardless of their individual journeys, they all share a common bond: their time as part of that memorable Newcastle United squad.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on the 1996-97 Newcastle United squad brings back a flood of memories for fans. It was a time of excitement, hope, and thrilling football. While they didn't achieve ultimate glory in terms of trophies, they captured the hearts of supporters and left a lasting legacy. The players, the manager, and the fans created a special bond that will never be forgotten. So, here's to "The Entertainers" – a team that will forever hold a special place in Newcastle United's history.