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As shock signings go, Manchester United buying Andy Cole from Newcastle United was an absolute bolt out of the blue.

It was simply a move that nobody saw coming. The Reds were in the market for a new striker but had been strongly linked with Nottingham Forest sharpshooter Stan Collymore, who showcased his talents by scoring a fabulous goal at Old Trafford in December.

Alex Ferguson was keen to recruit a fast forward to feed off Eric Cantona, with Mark Hughes coming to the end of his marvellous time at the club.

Cole was idolised by the Newcastle faithful and seemingly unattainable but all was not well behind the scenes.

The Magpies' leading scorer had bagged 14 goals in the opening 17 games of the season but suffered a shin-splits injury and was actually on something of a drought.