Played for Newcastle: 1992-2002 Position: Centre Midfielder League Appearances: 303 League goals: 44 Robert Lee signed for Newcastle from Charlton at the start of the 1992-93 season after the Addicks needed money to finance their move back to The Valley. The midfielder became an instant fan-favourite after the Magpies were promoted to the Premier League during his first season where he scored 10 goals in 36 games. He then scored 9 goals in 35 matches the following season as Newcastle qualified for the UEFA Cup by finishing sixth in the Premier League. Known for his box-to-box runs and competitive midfield play, Lee only got better and when Kevin Keegan gave him a more advanced role during the 1995-96 season thrived on it, scoring eight goals in 36 games. Newcastle finished the season in second place but Lee was named in the PFA Team Of The Year. After Keegan's surprise resignation the following season, new boss Kenny Dalglish made Lee his captain as the Magpies finished behind the Red Devils again. Lee will always be a legend on Tyneside and is the widely regarded as one of the best centre midfielders to have ever played for the club. Fondly remembered for his performances during 'The Entertainers' era and his effortless link-up play with Alan Shearer it will take a very special player to not just be likened to the former Charlton player.
NCTJ-accredited football writer with an MA in Sports Journalism. What Culture football editor. Write for the official Newcastle United programme. Former video reporter at North News. Featured and published in the Sunderland Echo, Shields Gazette, Mail Online, The Mirror, The Sun and others.
