We just want to entertain next generation of Toon fans
HEED BOSS EXCITED ABOUT LEGENDS CLASH NEXT YEAR
STEVE Watson is hoping fans from a different generation get to experience the buzz of watching the Entertainers when Newcastle stars become re-United next April.
The Tynesiders boss hopes that the clash in April between a Newcastle Legends side and a Gateshead XI will raise funds that will help the club compete in the future as they look to make the step up to the Football League.
Former Toon stars like Steve Howey and Peter Beardsley have already signed up to play in the friendly fixture next year with more big names set to be added to the bill.
It is an occasion that Watson feels will give fans young and old a great day out at the International Stadium.
Watson told the Chronicle: “People do still come up and talk about the Entertainers era.
“As time goes go on it is the more mature crowd though!
“Kids that support Newcastle now won’t know us unless there parents have really drummed it into them.
“But it will be a good day for the parents and the kids to go out there.
“It is good for the generations to see what their parents
For most of us it was the best years of our careers and certainly mine on the pitch. There are memories you’ll never lose.
are actually talking about. Hopefully they won’t judge us on it if it’s a bad performance!” Watson is doing a great job with the Gateshead in the National League as they chase a play-off place, but the former Toon star has fond memories of life on the other side of the Tyne.
“Kevin Keegan just allowed us to go out and play,” he added.
“He knew he had good players and he allowed us to play. He wanted us to go and express ourselves.
“The majority of time, that’s what we did. Yes, we lost the odd game and we were pipped at the post by a fantastic team that went on an unbelievable run in Man United.
“For most of us it was the best years of our careers and certainly mine on the pitch. There are memories you’ll never lose.
“I’ve got a little lad who wants to become a footballer. To be able to tell him once you played against Rivaldo at St James’ Park when we beat Barcelona or that we beat Man United 5-0 when they were in their pomp are memories you will never lose.”
Gateshead have had to perform a major shake-up behind the scenes