After a spell in temporary charge in 1977, Willie was handed the job as manager in 1985 after Jack Charlton stunned the club by walking out after being barracked in a pre-season friendly.

McFaul initially had players of the calibre of Peter Beardsley at his disposal, but after a bright start he found the going tough.

After allowing Paul Gascoigne to leave for Spurs, Willie spent big on Andy Thorn, Dave Beasant, John Hendrie and John Robertson, but neither of them set Tyneside alight and the manager was dismissed.

Now managing in Ireland, Willie will be remembered as the man who brought the first Brazilian, Mirandinha, into the English game.