10 Hardest Men That Ever Played For Newcastle United

7. Scott Parker

Many will consider Parker an odd inclusion as he doesn't quite fit the conventional image of a hardman with his side-parting hairstyle, chiselled cheekbones and McDonalds advert fame. But the Londoner was fearless, all-action midfielder who added steel to a timid Newcastle midfield and chased the ball across every blade of grass with unchecked enthusiasm that is drilled out of players nowadays.

Many will recall his heroic display in the 1-0 win against Arsenal in 2005 when he was hurt during a clash with goalkeeper Jens Lehmann but refused to be substituted and returned to the field biting on cotton wool to subdue the pain. Eventually he was knocked unconscious when scrambling to protect the ball on his hands and knees, attempting to return to the pitch before medics advised the England international that he needed instant treatment.