United's Premiership collapse in 1995/96 was seen mainly as a failure to defend at crucial stages of the game therefore it came as no surprise that £15 million was spent on another centre-forward. Keegan had been ready to quit, but the capture of Shearer re-kindled the spirit of both manager and fans.

The season started badly with a four goal defeat to Man United in the Charity Shield at Wembley followed by two defeats in the first three Premier games.

Seven League wins on the trot culminating in the 5-0 thrashing of Manchester United suggested that confidence had returned. However United's form deteriorated again and Keegan resigned withouth so much as a goodbye.

Kenny Dalglish replaced him and after a stuttering start which brought exits in both the FA and UEFA Cups some fans were getting on Dalglish's back with one even offering him the shirt off his own.

However United became harder to beat and they gradually climbed the table until they reached second on the final day of the season which earned them a place in the Champions League for the first time.

After a shaky start seven League wins on the trot culminating in the 5-0 mauling of Manchester United on October 20th had United's critics choking on their words.

Then just as suddenly came the downturn as the next seven Premiership games brought 4 draws and 3 defeats as injuries to Shearer and then Ferdinand appeared to disrupt the team.

Thumping home victories over Spurs and Leeds were followed, but Keegan resigned.

Under Dalglish the Magpies became harder to beat and only lost two more League games. In the last ten games they remained unbeaten and snatched 2nd place on the last day of the season.

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