Alious
In 1976, Newcastle United made what many consider a historic blunder by transferring their legendary striker Malcolm “Supermac” Macdonald to Arsenal. While Newcastle has seen numerous talented forwards grace their ranks since World War II – including the likes of Withe, Varadi, Goddard, Quinn, Cole, Ferdinand, Shearer, and the Ba-Cisse duo – Macdonald stands in a league of his own.
During his electrifying five-season tenure at Newcastle, Supermac became a cult hero, amassing an impressive century-plus goal tally. His larger-than-life personality and dynamic playing style captured the hearts of the Tyneside faithful.
The controversial decision by manager Gordon Lee to sell him to Arsenal for the peculiar sum of £333,333 sparked widespread anger among Newcastle supporters. Macdonald’s prowess continued at Arsenal, where he promptly demonstrated his scoring ability against his former club with a hat-trick at Highbury. He maintained an impressive strike rate of one goal every two league games until a devastating injury prematurely ended his career at 29.
His achievements include winning the First Division Golden Boot twice – first with Newcastle (1975) and then with Arsenal (1977). He also holds an enduring England record after scoring all five goals in a European Championship qualifier against Cyprus.
At Newcastle, Macdonald formed lethal partnerships with Tudor and Gowling, while his understanding with Terry Hibbitt was remarkable. His Arsenal career saw him mentoring emerging talents like Liam Brady and helping develop strikers Stapleton and Sunderland.
Fast forward to recent times, these two storied clubs met in a controversial match last season at St. James’ Park, marked by Anthony Gordon’s decisive goal and subsequent Arsenal management protests.
As we approach Saturday’s fixture, almost a year since that memorable Newcastle victory, there’s optimism for another home win. The London-born, North Shields-residing Supermac, who became an adopted Geordie, would surely appreciate that.
For the older generation of both clubs’ supporters attending this weekend’s match, Macdonald’s brilliance remains an indelible memory of a truly exceptional footballer.
Alious
