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Newcastle United: Top ten midfielders in club history

By Roy Emanuel

NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 7: Gary Speed of Newcastle is presented with an award for playing his 400th Premiership match by Sir Bobby Robson before the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St. James Park on February 7, 2004 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 7: Gary Speed of Newcastle is presented with an award for playing his 400th Premiership match by Sir Bobby Robson before the FA Barclaycard Premiership match between Newcastle United and Leicester City at St. James Park on February 7, 2004 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images) /
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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 05: Cheik Tiote of Newcastle celebrates scoring the fourth and equalising goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James’ Park on February 5, 2011 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 05: Cheik Tiote of Newcastle celebrates scoring the fourth and equalising goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James’ Park on February 5, 2011 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /

The all-time best midfielders for Newcastle United.

Several positions within a line-up will help to control the pace and tempo of a game. However, the role of a midfielder may accomplish that objective in a stronger manner than any other spot. Tasked with responsibilities at both ends of the pitch, midfield play is often where matches are won or lost.

Newcastle United have enjoyed outstanding contributions from this area throughout their history, and those players have helped to bring the club great triumphs. Jim Iley was a crucial part of the 1964-65 side that won promotion back to the top flight, and helped to guide that team towards a fantastic Fairs Cup title just a few years after.

Unforgettable moments have been produced in recent years as well, as no Toon fan anywhere in the world will forget Cheick Tiote’s rocket that capped off a thrilling comeback against Arsenal in 2011.

Talent has also been present that did not quite work out on Tyneside also. The likes of Jermaine Jenas and James Milner did not reach their full potential for United, but went on to find some successes elsewhere.

Currently, Jonjo Shelvey is the key component to manager Rafa Benitez’s squad. With excellent passing abilities and a fiery passion, the 26-year-old has the potential to lead the Magpies forward in the Premier League.

The middle of the line-up can be the core of the team in various ways. Talented and skillful footballers can dominate in the attack, while defensive-minded generals can assist in seeing out vital victories.

Related Story: Newcastle United's all-time top ten defenders

In the third edition of a four-part series, Newcastle Toons takes a look at the top ten midfielders in Newcastle United history.

Home/All-Time Lists