Andy Cole has revealed the reaction from Newcastle United fans to his controversial Tyneside exit more than two decades ago has always 'annoyed' him.
The Magpies broke their transfer record in February 1993 to sign the prolific striker from Bristol City in a £1.75m deal, and he made an immediate impact as Kevin Keegan's side cruised to the Division One title.
Cole set a club record the following season which still stands, netting 41 goals in just 46 appearances in United's maiden Premier League campaign.
The England international boasts a goals per game ratio of 81% at St James' Park, an impressive strike rate bettered only by Hughie Gallacher.
However, Cole sealed a controversial switch to Manchester United in January 1995 for a then British transfer record deal worth £7m with Keith Gillespie heading the other way.
It was a transfer which sent shockwaves through English football, and one that came about following a row between Keegan and his star striker.
It has been more than 25 years since the Magpies' boss was forced to explain the decision to disgruntled United supporters, and Cole admits the manner of his exit still rankles with fans.
He told the Manchester United podcast: “It’s always annoyed me. I wasn’t looking to leave Newcastle, I was very happy there.
“I remember a few years ago I went up with Les (Ferdinand) to do interviews. People came up and heckled me and I said 'you might as well go home or I’ll get up and walk out. I’m not really fussed by it.'
"Previously, people have understood what’s going on. The club made the decision that they wanted to sell me.”
Cole's record of 68 goals in just 84 matches ensured he was inducted into the Magpies' hall of fame, despite the acrimonious nature of his departure.
The striker went on to enjoy a trophy-laden six-year spell at Old Trafford, and the 48-year-old has revealed the only aspect of life on Tyneside he struggled with.
Cole added: “I enjoyed Newcastle. The only problem, for me, personally, it came too early for me.
”I’m not a big fan of people idolising me. I think that’s mad. When I went to the supermarket, I couldn’t shop. People were chasing me for autographs and I was like 'what is this?'”
