As it happens, Steven Taylor joined them with a red card, we played on with EIGHT players, lost 3-0, Nicky Butt did a runner when the fight started, and Alan Shearer tried to convince the ref the pair were only joking!
Toon Old Boys To Go Head-To-Head?
However, West Ham manager Alan Curbishley insists he is not expecting any problems when old sparring partners Kieron Dyer and Lee Bowyer are reunited at Upton Park.
Curbishley: "I spoke to both players and have been assured that it was a one-off, and they both actually speak to each other regularly.
"It was just two players desperate to do well. They were getting well beaten, and it just boiled over.
"We're trying to build a squad here. We are short in the middle, and Kieron can play that position.
"Newcastle changed it at the last minute before - when he was just walking in the door - so that was disappointing.
"But common sense has prevailed; Kieron is looking forward to joining us, and Newcastle go down their route.
"Every player you sign has risks - and he is no different. I hope he hits the ground running and shows everyone what a good player he is.
"Kieron's got to make up for a bit of lost time, and I hope he does. We're delighted to have him on board."