But even they have lost patience with his off field antics and Tino is now off to Chile.
It looks as though the time he spent with Parma and his short spell at St James’ Park are set to prove the highlights of his career.
Like Gazza, Tino’s career has descended to such an extent that he is now no more than a big name to attract publicity for clubs.
Still, his hat-trick against Barcelona will always remain one of the great moments on Tyneside.