Tony Cunningham (1984/85 to 1986/87)

Although Tony Cunningham is one of the less prolific strikers to have plied his trade on Tyneside he was a popular player due to the fact that he always worked hard and made best use of the abilities that he had.

He was signed by Jack Charlton in February 1985 after a move for Watford’s George Reilly fell through. Charlton had said at the beginning of the season that he felt that the forward line of Peter Beardsley and Chris Waddle was too lightweight and that they needed a “big man” to “take the weight” off them.

When he signed Charlton said: "He's not everyone's cup of tea, but he should work well with the front two. He is a big lad, very quick and can frighten a few people. He is a far post man who will give us an extra dimension”.

A few weeks later the George Reilly move was resurrected and United temporarily ended up playing with both of them up front with Beardsley and Waddle on the wings.

He was not a particularly gifted player, but he always gave 100%, battled hard and was not afraid to put himself about. He had great strength and both aerial and running power.

Jeff Clarke said the following about him. “If you've played against Tony, you know you've been in a game. He might not score a barrowload of goals, but he makes things happen around him for others”.

At the time he arrived on Tyneside there was a significant problem with racism from certain sections of the crowd so his bravery at coming to the club should not be overlooked. Howard Gayle had played on loan during 1982/83, but Tony was the first black player to sign permanently.

When he signed Charlton said: "I don't care if he is green, pink or blue and neither will the fans. He is one of ours now. We have never had any problems with colour."

Cunningham himself added: "I don't think I will have any bother from these fans. If you are in the team doing the job, it's not a problem”.

Unfortunately he did experience abuse from some Newcastle fans, particularly when the club was struggling. And even the song made up for him made reference to his appearance.

But he played through it and continued to do everything he could for the club. And in so doing he started to change the behaviour of the Gallowgate crowd, thus doing the club and the region a massive service.