But I digress, so back to the man from the Toon army. He didn't need much converting all those years ago, as his Newcastle upbringing had already instilled all the necessary football ingredients. He gladly came along to Alex games home and away. But following the transformation of St James' Park, I was a tad wary that he might find even the new-look Alexandra Stadium a little humble. I needn't have worried.
Any true supporter can appreciate progress - whatever the level, whatever the location.
As we walked along Nantwich Road before the game, he even likened our ground to that of his beloved Newcastle. Like the monster that dominates the Newcastle skyline, so too does the main stand of Gresty Road. He was impressed. And as we walked out from the concourse and up the steep steps of the main stand it was obvious that he was enjoying the occasion. More than anything, it gave me a huge sense of pride, that someone else could come along and see what's been achieved at Crewe.