When Newcastle United won the 2006 Intertoto Cup

Staring down the barrel of relegation from the Premier League at present, that 2006 Intertoto Cup success doesn't look to shabby to Newcastle United fans right now, I imagine.

Youngster Desmond looks to kick-start career following Newcastle release

Every summer, hundreds of Irish youngsters from various age groups make their way across the Irish Sea with stars in their eyes to take up contract offers from professional clubs all over England - and every year, making the return journey, are a slightly older group, their bright eyes dimmed by the rash realisation that their dreams have been dashed.