Belgian international who became a hero in his own country before joining
Newcastle United from champions Anderlecht for £2.65m in August 1994.
Despite damaging his cruciate ligament within four months of loining United,
Philippe ended a ten-month fitness struggle by recapturing all his immense
style and form. Last season, in the absence of Steve Howey, Philippe created
a sterling defensive partnership with Darren Peacock, and apart from a
late season injury absence, played all but two of the side's last 34 games
of 1996-97.
