The Uruguayan's two goals for Chelsea in an FA Cup semi-final 13 years ago had Sir Bobby Robson say that Gus Poyet was the scourge of Newcastle.
It's a label which should sit comfortably with any aspiring Sunderland manager.
Nevertheless, with Sunderland anchored to the foot of the table without a league win this season, the Mackems will take anything bringing hope, right now.
And holding an Indian sign over Sunderland's bitter rivals isn't a bad quality to offer, especially as Poyet's first home game in charge, eight days after he takes his struggling side to Swansea, is against Newcastle.
Poyet is keen not to be viewed as coming from the same managerial school as his predecessor.
They may share a Latin background, be renowned for their passion and their last jobs ending in acrimonious circumstances, but Poyet, say his friends, is his own man.
Poyet's friend (or so the Chronicle say): "He's a calmer, less combustible character than Paolo.
"But I'd say Gus possesses more emotional intelligence. By that I mean he'll be prepared to put an arm around shoulders if he thinks that's what a player needs.
"His man-management skills are better - just ask the Brighton players.
"Like Paolo, he can be a control freak and doesn't suffer fools gladly.
"Gus will also want a hands-on role when it comes to player recruitment and, with Sunderland's management structure, that's an area that will need sorting out.
"He will impose his own style of play on Sunderland and demand total loyalty from those under him.
"But if you give everything to Gus he will give you everything back, that's perhaps the biggest difference between him and Paolo.
"And don't worry, tomato ketchup and mayonnaise won't be banned from the canteen!"
Source: Sunderland-Mad
Source: FOOTYMAD
