A familiar face was in the crowd as Newcastle United beat Everton 3-1. Ex-midfielder and captain Geremi attended the game after he was invited by co-owner Mehdrad Ghodoussi.
The Cameroonian took to Instagram to thank Ghodoussi for the invitation to the fixture. He may not have had the most outstanding career on Tyneside, but he clearly enjoyed his time there.
Furthermore, it’s really nice to see the new owners extend invitations to ex-players. I wouldn’t be opposed to seeing more forgotten Toon players in attendance. Let’s see Leon Best in the stands against Aston Villa!
What is Geremi up to now?
The Cameroonian joined Newcastle in 2007 after his Chelsea contract expired. He signed a three-year deal, and was made captain by then-manager Sam Allardyce. However, he lost the armband when Big Sam was replaced by Kevin Keegan.
After leaving the Magpies in 2009, Geremi played for Ankaragucu in Turkey and Greek side AEL Football Club. He hung up his boots in 2011 and retired from the game.
Geremi is now the head of FIFPRO Africa. They’re an organisation that represent footballers all around the world. He’s been apart of them since 2017. In October last year, the ex-Newcastle man was re-elected as head of Africa.
It would appear that the club is looking to build a relationship with Geremi and the organisation. He’s an important figure for FIFPRO. If the Toon were looking to perhaps acquire talents from Africa, the former captain might be a valuable asset for them.
Also, with the riches Newcastle now have, they will want to make sure the money spent on signings and scouting is effective. As head of the continent, Geremi will have his finger firmly on the pulse of promising talent from Africa.
It was a surprise to see Geremi back at St James’ Park. Some fans wouldn’t have thought much of it but it was great to see him accept the invitation and speak highly of the club.
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