Two relegations, even if two immediate promotions followed, tells the tale of what has been a grim existence as a fan of Mike Ashley’s United.
There have been moments in that time, but nothing more than glimmers. Players have come and gone – some good, a few too many not so good. Our writers Miles Starforth & Liam Kennedy rank the BEST 25 to play in black and white between 2010 and 2020.
17. Martin Dubravka
Arguably Rafa Benitez's best Newcastle United signing - and arguably up there with one of the best keepers to wear the United top. Has mistakes in him, yes, but his stats this season are remarkable - no goalkeeper has made more saves that the Slovakian this campaign in the Premier League. Maybe hasn't quite hit the heights of his first few months on Tyneside but don't let that take away from his quality. | Getty Images Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
18. Paul Dummett
It’s not always been easy for Paul Dummett, who made his debut during Alan Pardew’s time as manager. Dummett, a product of the club’s Academy, had to establish himself the hard way, first by going out on loan – he had spells at St Mirren and Gateshead – and then by patiently waiting for – and taking – chances in defence. Dummett came into his own during Rafa Benitez’s time as manager, when he was a steady, dependable and defensive-minded left-back. Dummett has also captained his boyhood club. | Getty Images Photo: Mark Runnacles
19. Gini Wijnaldum
Not many Newcastle players have scored four goals in the Premier League in a single game, Netherlands international Wijnaldum did just that in his one campaign at United (against Norwich City), so for that reason he's in. Yes, he went hiding in the last months of the relegation year but was top-scorer that season with 11 goals from midfield. Has since gone from strength-to-strength at World and European champions Liverpool. | Getty Images Photo: PAUL ELLIS
20. Jamaal Lascelles
Some defenders could argue they deserve a place in the 25 more than Lascelles but this selection is about a whole lot more than just ability on the park. Lascelles was the leader United lacked in the relegation season, calling out those who were not pulling their weight. He was then made captain and led from the front as United were promoted back to the top flight. Another who is not perfect but deserves a lot of praise for the way he was Rafa Benitez's man on the pitch while the Spaniard's revolution was in full swing on Tyneside. He gets what it means to play for Newcastle, and that means a lot when so many before him have not. | Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol