Andrew Ferrell was arrested as part of Operation Wexford, which focused on an organised criminal network of drug distribution across the North-East.
The 29-year-old, of Adair Avenue, Benwell, Newcastle, was jailed for four years after working as a courier transporting drugs and large amounts of cash between dealers.
He was one of ten men sentenced today (Monday, June 17) at Newcastle Crown Court after all admitted key roles.
A further five men were spared jail for lesser roles. All pleaded guilty.
Midfielder Ferrell joined Newcastle United in 2002 under Sir Bobby Robson before being released in the 2003/2004 season having played a handful of reserve team games. He was never picked for the first team.
His career gradually spiraled playing for Watford, York and Kidderminister before returning to Tyneside to play for Gateshead in 2009 until his release in 2011.
Source: Newcastle United Mad
Source: FOOTYMAD
