He only made 81 appearances for the Magpies but James Perch is considered somewhat of a cult hero at St James’ Park following his three-year stint on Tyneside.
The versatile star, who shone at full-back, central midfield and even filled in at the heart of the defence for Newcastle United, has decided to call time on his lengthy career at the age of 39, announcing the decision in recent days. Perch has been with Ilkeston Town since September 2023, having been released by Mansfield Town.
He also enjoyed stints at QPR, Wigan Athletic and Nottingham Forest but his spell at Newcastle arguably brought the most success after he helped the north east outfit reach the Europa League with a fifth-placed finish in 2012. Alan Pardew was the man in the dugout at that point and got on well with ‘Perchinho’ – until Mike Ashley got involved.
With little over a year left on his Newcastle deal, the then-owner told Pardew that he wanted Perch sold. The manager, despite still using the defender week in, week out agreed and the news was delivered that a new deal wouldn’t be put on the table.
Months later, Perch joined Wigan and when Pardew tried to reach out over the phone, the player was in no mood to talk.
“And that’s when I kind of knew it was time to leave,” Perch told Newcastle United’s official website earlier this season. “Even though I had the rest of the season to play.
“Looking back, I probably should have stayed and fought for my place, but I just knew that Mike (Ashley) didn’t want me there. Pardew wasn’t big enough to stand up to him and say, ‘I want to play Perchy.’ So, I just thought I’ll leave.
“I just regret not going in and saying bye to everybody. I think I saw Thommo (Ray Thompson), the kit man, when I went and picked up my boots. But I had a good relationship with everyone up there. Pardew rang me when I left and signed for Wigan. I didn’t answer the phone. I didn’t ring him back.”
Confirming his retirement over the weekend, Perch took to social media to write: “Officially Retired after 22 years of playing. I am very proud and honoured to have played for some amazing football clubs, with some great players and staff which have turned into lifelong friends.
“I’m so grateful for every minute I played & all the incredible experiences. Thank you to all the fans, my team mates, the clubs and my family for the support I’ve always been given.”
View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/im-newcastle-united-hero-who-30715066
