Legacy of one-time world ‘keepy-up’ record holder continues at St James’ Park | OneFootball

Alan Suddick was a fine player and stand out character.

He became Newcastle United’s youngest ever debutant at the time, aged only 17 years and 158 days.

Born in Chester le Street, Alan became a fan favourite at Gallowgate between 1961 and 66.

He was a skilful inside forward who developed into a brilliant dead ball specialist.

The Toon supporters loved him and he was part of Joe Harvey’s side that achieved promotion in 1965, alongside other local lads Frankie Clark and Bryan ‘Pop’ Robson.

It was a sad day at St James’ Park when Newcastle accepted a £63,000 bid from Blackpool for Alan in 1966. This was a club record deal for the Seaside club.

Alan Suddick went on to become a club legend at Blackpool and gave a decade of loyal service.

He was inducted into the Blackpool Hall of Fame in 2006 by none other than the great Jimmy Armfield, and he is still referred to as the ‘King of Bloomfield Road’ by many to the this day.

He even once held the unofficial ‘keepy-uppy’ world record after circling the pitch three and a half times in 20 minutes without the ball touching the deck.

Alan sadly passed away in 2009, aged only 64 years of age.

Alan Suddick scored 41 goals in 144 league appearances for Newcastle United and is still fondly remembered by Geordie fans of a certain vintage.

He also received international recognition during his early career and picked up two England under 23 caps.