The move to pluck Souness from Ewood Park was a surprise to many supporters and the former Liverpool-man was tasked with dragging Newcastle from the relegation zone after a poor start to the season.
In his first campaign, Souness steered Newcastle to a UEFA Cup Quarter-Final and an FA Cup semi-final.
However, in his second, and final season, United struggled with injuries as some players also complained about a low dressing-room morale.
Souness left Newcastle lying in 15th position, one lower than the 14th they finished the season before.
His final game in charge was a 3-0 humbling at Manchester City - former Magpie-favourite Andy Cole grabbed the second-goal.
17 years on from his appointment, we look at who played for Newcastle United on that cold evening in Manchester and see where they are now.
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However, in his second, and final season, United struggled with injuries as some players also complained about a low dressing-room morale.