Newcastle Transfers: 10 More French Players Who Played For The Toon

7. Sylvain Distin

Sylvain DistinBorn: December 16th, 1977 in Bagnolet Signed By: Sir Bobby Robson in 2001 on loan Signed From: Paris Saint-Germain Left Newcastle: 2002 at end of loan deal League Appearances: 28 League Goals: 0 Another player that younger fans may not recall playing for the Magpies, defender Sylvain Distin was a regular part of the Newcastle United defence following his loan move in September 2001, turning out 28 times in league games during his sole season at the club. At the time of his arrival in England, Distin had already impressed in French football, climbing the domestic footballing chain from non-league Joué-lès-Tours to Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain in just three years. Aged just 23, it was clear he was a hot prospect, and Newcastle had to pay a loan fee to secure the move. Playing alongside Nikos Dabizas, Aaron Hughes, Andy O'Brien, Rob Elliott and Warren Barton among others throughout the campaign, typically at left back, Distin received plaudits for his performances as Newcastle enjoyed vast success and finished 4th in the Premier League. At the end of the campaign, with Champions League football secured for 2002-03, a permanent move to Tyneside to be part of the Sir Bobby Robson revolution seemed assured; however, he instead opted to join Manchester City, giving the reason that he wanted to play in central defence. Distin's decision to join Kevin Keegan's expensive side was a blow to Newcastle, with Titus Bramble signing in the Summer from Ipswich Town as a replacement. A third-placed finish the following season, however, made it clear that his departure would not hinder the Magpies' progress. After five years at Manchester City, Distin went on to join Portsmouth and later Everton, reaching the milestone of 400 Premier League appearances in February 2013. Given Newcastle's defensive frailties over time, and signings including Bramble, Jean-Alain Boumsong and Cacapa, it remains a shame that Distin opted to leave the club in 2002, although his success over the years suggests that it is unlikely that he regrets that decision. That said, it is possible that staying at Newcastle may have helped him into the French national team. Surprisingly, he has never gained international recognition, even when defenders such as Pascal Chimbonda have. Would he make the cut today? Yes. Distin still plays in an excellent Everton side, and would be a strong, experienced head in defence. In his prime, he would perhaps be a starting centre back, possibly keeping Steven Taylor out of the team.
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Dave Hedley is a writer, journalist and broadcaster based in Newcastle. A keen follower of both music and sport, and a keen follower of Newcastle United, he writes for WhatCulture! on football and other sports.