NEWCASTLE are preparing for their return to European competition against AC Milan – more than ten years on from their last appearance.
Then managed by Alan Pardew, the Newcastle squad boasted some memorable Premier League figures for the Europa League defeat to Benfica.
Veteran goalkeeper Tim Krul started between the posts with Prem cult hero Papiss Cisse leading the attack.
The striker scored four goals in nine Europa League games that season, including the winner against Anzhi Makhachkala in the last 16.
He also scored in both legs against Benfica as Toon fell to a 4-2 aggregate defeat in the quarter final.
Cisse was not the only cult hero playing for Newcastle, with club favourite Jonas Gutierrez lining up on the left flank.
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Another fan favourite, Johan Cabaye, started at number 10.
The Frenchman had an instant impact in the Prem and is fondly remembered by fans – and not just supporters of Newcastle or Crystal Palace, who he joined in 2015.
The rest of Newcastle’s midfield consisted of Vurnon Anita, Gael Bigirimana and Moussa Sissoko, who was another integral part of Pardew’s squad.
After starring for the Magpies into Europe he joined Tottenham and helped them reach the 2019 Champions League final.
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Sissoko was joined on the right flank by full-back Danny Simpson, who would go on to win the Premier League with Leicester in 2016.
Massadio Haidara featured at left-back and Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa partnered Williamson in central defence.
While a player the ‘streets won’t forget’, Hatem Ben Arfa, came on as a second-half substitute.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
