The Irish midfielder couldn’t stop the Tricky Trees from being relegated in 1993, but he was a sought-after talent nonetheless and was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson after a move to Blackburn hit a snag. Within four years he was captain and he led the team to seven Premier League titles, and helped them claim their famous treble in 1999.
Fergie swooped for the prolific England striker in 1995 as he looked to add firepower to his side, paying £6m as well as giving Newcastle the £1m-rated Keith Gillespie for Cole's services.