I was loved at Newcastle United – but leaving was a ‘no-brainer’ after club-record Tottenham Hotspur bid

Les Ferdinand’s journey through English football remains a remarkable story, defined by his prolific spell at Newcastle United before fulfilling a lifelong dream by joining his boyhood club, Tottenham Hotspur, in 1997.

Signed from Queens Park Rangers for £6 million in 1995, Ferdinand became a crucial figure for Newcastle, delivering 50 goals in 84 appearances and helping the club secure back-to-back second-place finishes in the Premier League.

Reflecting on his transfer to Newcastle, Ferdinand recalled his departure from QPR amidst widespread speculation about his next move. Clubs across the league sought his signature, and Newcastle stood out among them.

While there were murmurs of interest from Tottenham, Ferdinand was informed that Spurs chairman Alan Sugar was unwilling to meet the £6 million asking price for a 28-year-old forward. The decision became clear after a conversation with Kevin Keegan, Newcastle’s manager at the time. Ferdinand committed to the Magpies, sealing the deal with a handshake. Although Spurs later expressed interest, Ferdinand’s word was his bond, and he stayed true to his agreement with Newcastle.

At Newcastle, Ferdinand quickly found his stride, delivering the finest form of his career. In his debut season, he scored an impressive 29 goals, emerging as a key figure in one of the most memorable chapters in the club’s history.

That season, Newcastle led the Premier League by 12 points in January, only to see their title hopes dashed by Manchester United in a dramatic finish. Despite the disappointment, Ferdinand’s efforts earned him the prestigious PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite strikers.

Newcastle’s dynamic style of play during that period earned them the nickname “The Entertainers,” and Ferdinand was at the heart of their thrilling brand of football. He described the experience as an extraordinary time in his career, noting the electric atmosphere created by the club’s passionate supporters.

While the memories of that era remain cherished, Ferdinand admitted to a bittersweet feeling when reflecting on the near-miss of the Premier League title in 1996. That season represented the pinnacle of his career, but it also left lingering thoughts of what could have been.

In his second season at Newcastle, Ferdinand faced a new challenge when the club signed Alan Shearer for a record transfer fee. Ferdinand willingly handed over the iconic No. 9 shirt to Shearer, and the two formed a lethal strike partnership.

Ferdinand continued to excel, scoring 21 goals in all competitions, while Shearer claimed the Premier League Golden Boot with 25 league goals. Together, they established themselves as one of the most formidable attacking duos in English football.

However, financial considerations led to a turning point in Ferdinand’s career. At the age of 30, Newcastle decided to raise funds, and Ferdinand found himself linked with a move away from St. James’ Park.

Several clubs expressed interest, but when Tottenham came calling, the decision was easy for Ferdinand. Joining Spurs for a then-record £6 million fee marked a return to his boyhood club, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.

Ferdinand looked back on his time at Newcastle with immense pride. The two years he spent on Tyneside were among the most productive and enjoyable of his career. He spoke fondly of the goals he scored, the partnerships he formed, and the memories created during a period of great excitement for the club.

Newcastle’s vibrant football and passionate fanbase provided the perfect platform for Ferdinand to showcase his talents and cement his legacy as one of the Premier League’s finest strikers.

His move to Tottenham signaled the start of a new chapter, but Ferdinand’s contributions to Newcastle United remain etched in the club’s history. His time with the Magpies not only highlighted his exceptional ability as a goal scorer but also exemplified his commitment, professionalism, and loyalty.

Ferdinand’s journey serves as a testament to the impact a player can have on a club and its supporters, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with fans to this day.