‘Newcastle was different’: Papiss Cisse’s special connection with the club

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The name Papiss Cisse will forever be remembered, not just by Newcastle United fans, but fans of the Premier League.

His amazing first-half season with the Magpies saw him score some wondergoals. The brace against Chelsea is arguably the best in Premier League history.

He was adored on Tyneside and whilst he didn’t quite reach the same heights as that first initial half-season, he did score some key goals. Whether it was in the Premier League or in the Europa League, Cisse certainly made his mark.

The man himself still has a deep connection with the club. He currently plays out in Turkey at Çaykur Rizespor along with ex-Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasie.

All these years on and Cisse still sees himself as a Newcastle player

Speaking to The Chronicle, Cisse explained playing for Newcastle is more than just a contract.

“I feel like I’m still a Newcastle player,” he said.

“My son sometimes tells me that. He looks at me and says, ‘you still think you have a contract at Newcastle United!’ I tell him it’s not about the contract. I am a Newcastle fan now. It’s my team. I still love Newcastle United.

“Newcastle is part of me because I had great moments and I enjoyed the time I spent there, and I respect this club and the Geordies as well. It will always be the team that I have in my heart. I never supported other clubs when I left, but Newcastle was different.”

These comments will make some Toon fans love Cisse even more. Considering he’s played for 10 different clubs in his career, it speaks volumes that Newcastle is the only one he truly supports.

The love for the Toon that he still holds is what he and all other Newcastle legends all have in common.

Could we see Cisse in some form of capacity at St James’ Park again?

We’ve seen a number of players show their faces at St James’ Park in recent months since the new owners arrived. Even some unlikely ex-players including Geremi.

It would be amazing at some point to see Cisse back at the ground. There’s no doubt he would get a very warm reception. Considering his love for Newcastle, he’d certainly love to make a return to Tyneside.

Additionally, it’s great to still see that, at 36-years-old, he’s still playing professionally.

He joined the Turkish side this year and has a goal to his name from eight appearances. He also has one assist. Interestingly, the striker currently wears the number two shirt for Çaykur Rizespor.