Can history repeat itself in Europe for Newcastle United?
Xisco's appearance in Newcastle United's squad to tackle Club Brugge reminded me of the night that his fellow countryman Albert Luque covered himself in glory in the old UEFA Cup.
Like Xisco, Luque's big money move from Deportivo la Coruna turned a bit sour after the manager who signed him in Graeme Souness quickly moved on.
It was left to Glenn Roeder to try to get something out of him and despite Luque clearly not suited to life in Newcastle, he squeezed out three goals from the ex-Depor man.
Of course we all remember the strike against Sunderland which has gone down in Geordie folklore in the 4-1 hammering in 2006.
Luque also grabbed one against Lillestrom, but maybe his finest hour came in Palermo when he stooped low to head home the winner for Roeder.
With Xisco in the squad for the game with Brugge, can history repeat itself?
If it did it would spark wild scenes here in Belgium where thousands of fans are gathering for the Europa League game.
Stranger things have happened in the world of Newcastle United!
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« Brugges invasion can lay the foundations for Newcastle United's Europa League challenge | Newcastle United fans set for Euro cracker if Brugge clash matches atmosphere »
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Lee Ryder - Proudly born and bred on Tyneside, the Chronicle's chief sports writer has followed the fortunes of the club over the last three decades as a Toon fan and football writer.
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