When Ryan Taylor signed for Newcastle he had great scoring record against the Toon but not against anyone else.
He was part of the deal that took Charles N’Zogbia to Wigan Athletic, and United must have been impressed how he always upped his game against the Magpies.
I know many who felt Wigan were offloading a very average player, but he became a crowd favourite.
But injuries have prevented him from proving his quality on a consistent basis.
Nearly two years out with a knee problem left many fearing Taylor would not be the same player – and his comeback lasted two games.
You will never get a sentimental view from Mike Ashley but even he must think the lad deserves an extension.
Personally, I don't think he will. Pardew will probably fight his corner, but then again the manager knows 'another off the wage bill suggests another player can come in'.
It's a tough call, and I'd hate to think I was making it.
Jonas Gutierrez is another story that pulls on the heartstrings.
His battle to overcome cancer has been inspirational and there would be nothing better than seeing him turn out in a Newcastle United shirt before the end of the season.
Whether he has a future at the club is another matter. It has to be acknowledged that the United hero – as popular on the terraces as he is in the dressing room – was heading for the door before being diagnosed with his illness.
He has slated Pardew in the media, and that alone suggests he will be heading back to Argentina come the summer.