Newcastle United FC

Club: Newcastle United FC
Formed: 1881
Nickname: Magpies
Colours: Black and white stripes
Stadium: St James' Park (52,193)
Address: Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 4ST
Website: www.nufc.co.uk

In previous incarnations they were Stanley and Newcastle East End, but they became the famous Newcastle United in 1892 when they took over at St James' Park from rivals Newcastle West End and a year later took their place in the Football League.

Success gas come in fits and starts to the Toon, who have a tidy haul of four English championships, six FA Cups and one Fairs Cup triumph. But the last of those came in in 1969 and it's been a long wait for silverware since.

Recently they have forged a reputation as nearly men - twice finishing runners-up to Manchester United in the league under Kevin Keegan and then losing in consecutive FA Cup finals. But with local heroes Sir Bobby Robson and Alan Shearer on board, the club are establishing themselves as a true force in England and Europe.

Fast Fact: Jimmy Lawrence made a record 496 league and cup appearnces for Newcastle between 1904 and 1922.

Fast Fact: Prior to 1904 Newcastle wore red and white stripes before changing to the now legendary black and white.