Revealed: The Newcastle United flop who persuaded Joselu to join Magpies

Spanish striker Joselu moved to Tyneside from Stoke City in a £5million deal to become Rafa Benitez's sixth summer signing.

But before he left the Britannia Stadium, the 27-year-old sought advice from a former St. James' Park loanee – Stephen Ireland.

The Republic of Ireland international made only two substitute appearances for Newcastle during a loan spell from Manchester City in 2011.

And while the midfielder may not have made a great impression on the Newcastle faithful, the Toon Army certainly seem to have had a lasting impact on the midfielder.

Ireland gave the club's fans a glowing review and Joselu is now eager to form a strong relationship with the Toon's fan base.

“Stephen Ireland told me (about the fans) because he played here,” said the Spaniard in an interview with nufc.co.uk.

“He said the supporters are very, very nice and the stadium is also amazing.

“I think in the Premier League a lot of teams have very good supporters.

“I'm so excited to get to know the supporters for Newcastle.”