Tributes have poured in following the sad passing of motivational coaching guru Steve Black.
Black played a big part in the psychology side of Kevin Keegan's Entertainers era and iconically trained the players on Tynemouth beach - often with masses of supporters watching on in admiration.
The Geordie had a number of stints at Newcastle but also played a big part with Newcastle Falcons on the rugby union scene.
And he also worked with Huddersfield Town FC and Sunderland, as well as the Welsh national rugby union team and the British & Irish Lions.
Jonny Wilkinson, Lee Clark, Paul Bracewell, Glenn McCrory, Joey Barton and Danny Cipriani were all big believers in Black's methods and know-how.
Former Newcastle assistant boss Terry McDermott said: "[I am] Devastated to wake up to the news my big mate Blackie has passed away. "Words can’t do justice what a top bloke he was and he will be missed very much by everyone who knew him."
Newcastle Falcons released the following statement: "The jovial Geordie was the spiritual heartbeat of the Falcons from the very early days of professionalism, helping steer Newcastle to the promotion and then the Premiership title at the first attempt.
"Winning multiple domestic cups under his watch, Blackie's unique motivational talents saw him succeeding with the Welsh national team and the British & Irish Lions, as well as with Newcastle United and Sunderland football clubs, and numerous other elite sportspeople.
"Much more than his sporting achievements, Blackie was a friend to all of us - a proud Geordie who understood the value of people, and how to inspire them."
A Magpies statement read: "We are saddened to learn of the death of Steve Black, who worked with Newcastle United under Kevin Keegan during the Entertainers era and was also part of the club's backroom staff during the 2015/16 season. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
