A to Z Goal of the Day Series: C is for Cole

SIGNING FOR UNITED

Cole’s move to Old Trafford in 1995 was seen as a major shock at the time – and a huge coup for Alex Ferguson and his side. Andy was prolific at St James’ Park, scoring 68 goals in 84 games, and the Magpies, along with eventual champions Blackburn Rovers, were threatening to challenge United’s Premier League hegemony. Cole’s £7 million transfer was a then British record, with Keith Gillespie moving in the other direction.

FINEST MOMENT

16 May 1999. United are being held 1-1 at home by Tottenham Hotspur, in a game in which we need all three points to be sure of wrenching the league back from Arsenal. Gary Neville chips a ball over the top to the onrushing Cole, who finds space between two Spurs defenders. Stretching, he brings the ball down perfectly, before lobbing deftly over goalkeeper Ian Walker. 2-1 United, and the first leg of the Treble was secured.