One of the country's most versatile players, Steve has declared a preference
for right-back but is comfortable in most positions, and earned high praise
for his performances at the centre of defense towards the end of last season.
Steve became the youngest man ever to play for Newcastle when he made his
first team debut at the age of 16 years 223 days in a Second Division match
at Wolves in November 1990. His early maturity has blossomed into a supreme
self-confidence, exceptional athleticism and technical excellence which,
amongst other things, earned him 12 England Under 21 caps between 1993
and 1996. Steve passed the 200 games mark for Newcastle shortly after his
23rd birthday and, with another new contract recently signed and sealed,
could conceivably be a candidate to overtake Jimmy Lawrence's club appearances
record of 496.
