Joe Allon always dreamed of wearing the number 9 for Newcastle United but is now delighted to see Dwight Gayle do the iconic number proud.
Gayle was sold to Newcastle because Alan Pardew didn't rate him!
Joe Allon: It was always my dream to wear the coveted number 9 shirt for Newcastle United and score in it at St James’ Park.
Legends like Malcolm McDonald and Jackie Milburn before me had graced what has become a famous number on Tyneside, and new legends like Alan Shearer and Andy Cole were to wear it after I left the club too.
Sadly I never got to fulfil that dream and was forced to carve a career away from my beloved Toon. Make no mistake though, that iconic shirt number still means as much to me now as it always did.
That is why, I - as much as any fan - am delighted to see it on the back of a player I believe can become as much a Geordie hero as the aforementioned striking greats of years gone by.
Dwight Gayle is the number 9 that Newcastle United fans have been craving for years - I honestly believe he could go on to get 25-35 goals this season.
His hat-trick on Wednesday night was a joy to behold.
He showed in that game exactly what he’s all about - and what’s more he showed the character needed to make him a success. Yes, he did miss a couple of early chances but never shied away and never let his head drop - even when Newcastle found themselves 3-1 down. Instead he stayed busy, he always looked to find space and get the ball, and showed great movement and great work-rate.
For that, he got his rewards and so did Newcastle. What a night!
Fast-forward three days and Gayle may not have got himself on the scoresheet in the win over Rotherham, but again he worked hard. He showed the commitment that all Toon fans want.
His goals over the season can fire the Magpies back to the Premier League, and he can then also score the goals that keep them there too.
Tyneside finally has a new number 9!
Elsewhere, a quick mention to Craig Hignett and my old side Hartlepool after their magnificent 3-0 away win at Grimsby.
And what a day for Padraig Amond who came back to haunt his former side with two of the three goals.
It’s not often Hartlepool win 3-0 away from home, so I hope the Poolies enjoyed that one.