Shirt of Legends: The Story of Newcastle United's No. 9 Heroes

0.0

Much rests on the shoulders of United's No. 9 center-forward, as he carries the dreams of thousands and the hopes of a whole Geordie nation. From Peddie, Appleyard, and Shepherd to Wee Hughie Gallacher, Albert Stubbins, Jackie Milburn, Wyn Davies, and Malcolm Macdonald, as well as modern-day icons such as Andy Cole, Les Ferdinand, and Alan Shearer, they have been a mixed bunch. Some have been masterful in the air, while several struck the ball with terrific power; others have possessed the art of placement and, a few, the ultimate poacher's instinct in front of goal. But all had the same mission: to score goals. And whatever their style, if they donned the center-forward shirt for Newcastle United, they were treated as gods. Shirt of Legends is about all of those players—the many different characters and personalities in the center-forward role who have worn Newcastle United's No. 9 shirt since its introduction in 1939.

0.0

Having followed the roller-coaster fortunes of Newcastle United for more than 40 years, Paul Joannou is recognised as the club's official historian. He has compiled a thorough library of well-received titles on the Magpies, including A Complete Record, The Black 'n' White Alphabet, Fortress St James and the club's masterful centenary history United: The First 100 Years & More.