Ferris refused to let broken Toon dream dictate life’s story

advent of the Premier League had produced a new arrogant breed of pampered prima donnas into his treatment room and it irked him His damning verdict is spot on: “Young boys with too much money, too much fame, and too little common sense”.

He also bemoans the disconnect that exists between modern millionaire stars and the fans these days. A heart-attack made him think more deeply about the early part of his life in Ulster, particularly the sectarian abuse he and his family suffered during the Troubles.

Ferris, now 52, also recently revealed he’s been fighting prostate cancer.

After leaving Newcastle in 2006 Ferris decided on another dramatic career change and within three years he’d qualified as a barrister.

Next, he returned briefly to football, but his short spell as part of Alan Shearer’s management team was ended abruptly by owner Mike Ashley without any explanation.

Ferris (left) bounced back. Now he’s a successful businessman on Tyneside running the health and fitness company Speedflex.

Footballer, physiotherapist, barrister, company boss and now bestselling author. A remarkable CV for a guy from the school of hard knocks.

The Boy on the Shed reveals an impressive triumph of human resilience over adversity as well as a truly gifted wordsmith.

Bernadette would have been so proud.