And that has led manager Alan Pardew to remind his players the grass is not always greener on the other side regarding transfers to supposedly 'bigger' clubs.
Andy Carroll and Jose Enrique, who both left Tyneside for Liverpool, were taunted by Magpies fans on their return to St James' Park.
Writing in his programme notes ahead of the home clash with struggling Bolton, Pardew said: "I took no satisfaction from seeing our former players, Andy and Jose, enduring a difficult day, as they were fantastic for us during their time at this club.
"But maybe this season has changed a few perceptions and sent out a message to players tempted by offers to join so-called bigger clubs in the Premier League.
"Newcastle have proved time and again over the last few months that we can compete with big-name clubs like Liverpool, and maybe it will encourage players to think again if they dare to believe the grass is greener elsewhere."