Ready to renew rivalries Aug 4 2005
The renewal of old rivalries promises to provide the highlights of the sporting season for tens of thousands of the region's most fervent followers of football. more
Taylor is ready when needed Aug 4 2005
When Sir John Hall launched his Newcastle United revolution, he suggested the dream was to one day see 11 Geordie lads running out in the black-and-white stripes in the pursuit of another piece of famous silverware. more
Shay's still angry Aug 4 2005
For someone who talks so softly, Shay Given has the remarkable ability to make people take notice when he speaks. more
Courage and flair to spread harmony Aug 4 2005
It is a credit to the vast majority of Newcastle United fans that black, white, colour or creed, the only requirement for acceptance is that a player shows sufficient passion and pride in wearing the club's badge. more
Craving success Aug 4 2005
Having managed a mere 125 minutes of Premiership football during Chelsea's momentous title-winning campaign, Scott Parker felt like an imposter as he watched the championship celebrations unfold at an exuberant Stamford Bridge in May. more
Spare a thought for James Aug 4 2005
It is normally difficult to feel much sympathy for footballers. Highly paid young men, with a pampered lifestyle, doing the job most boys spent their childhoods dreaming about, do not generally deserve our commiseration. more
Davis is confident but not too cocky Aug 4 2005
Sunderland goalkeeper Kelvin Davis has got what it takes to establish himself as a top performer in the Premiership this season. more
I've made my point Aug 4 2005
In the 10 years since being told he had no future in football, Liam Lawrence has proved his doubters wrong. more
High-flying hopes Aug 4 2005
Nyron Nosworthy has undergone a great upheaval to sign for Sunderland. more
Rising to the challenge Aug 4 2005
A perceived lack of height threatened to end Tommy Miller's professional career before it had begun. more
Thirsting for those derby days Aug 4 2005
The North East's big three renew rivalries in the Premiership this season but can Newcastle or Sunderland topple top dogs Middlesbrough? more
Hard work is starting now for Boro boss Aug 4 2005
Since taking over as manager in 2000, Steve McClaren has transformed Middlesbrough Football Club but the hard work is only just beginning. more
Yakubu has perfect pedigree Aug 4 2005
Yakubu has been under the Riverside radar for four years and Steve McClaren described his move as inevitable. more
Pallister Park boy has fans on side Aug 4 2005
With respect to the likes of Aiyegbeni Yakubu and Emanuel Pogatetz, the most important signing Middlesbrough made this summer may already have been at the club. more
