"Of course I was tempted to join Manchester United, but I do not regret either decision.
"I had a magical time at Blackburn, winning the league. And I completed my own dream of playing for my home town club of Newcastle.
"I have memories I will hold forever and a goalscoring record that makes me extremely proud.
"Come the final whistle on Sunday I will shake Alex Ferguson’s hand. He is a man you cannot help but admire for what he has achieved in the game."