AFTER proving himself in the tough world of football management with Swindon Town, Ossie arrived at St. James' in 1991 to replace Jim Smith.

He quickly dismantled the team of experienced players that Smith had developed, and brought in several youngsters.

The fans liked his attacking style of play, but while his players scored goals for fun he had problems at the back and Newcastle struggled.

His young team found the going tough, and with United in danger of dropping into the old Third Division, Ossie was replaced by Kevin Keegan.

Ardiles later managed West Brom and Spurs with limited success, and eventually returned to his native Argentina via a spell in Japan.