Ex-Premier League cult hero looks unrecognisable as he becomes huge pundit in France… but can you guess who it is?

NEWCASTLE cult hero looks unrecognisable over a decade on from his playing days in the Premier League.

The 45-year-old introduced himself to English football in 2007 after being a rampaging success at Strasbourg and Marseille.

The ex-Newcastle ace can be seen as a pundit in FranceAFP

He joined the Toon for £2million in the closing minutes of the summer transfer window, penning a three-year deal.

Newcastle manager at the time, Sam Allardyce, called the acquisition of the right-back as a “bargain”.

The Senegal ace was also named Newcastle Player of the Season based on fan votes in 2008.

However, his time at St James’ Park came to an end in 2009, following Newcastle’s relegation, with the player leaving the club in order to save his career.

After making 54 appearances in two years, the defender joined Aston Villa.

But his bid to revive his career at Villa Park was unsuccessful.

He made just 18 appearances for Villa and found it hard to break into the first-team.

In fact, his spell at Villa was so bad that in 2011 he went on loan to Doncaster rovers.

BETTING SPECIAL – BEST FOOTBALL BETTING SITES IN THE UK

And in February 2012, his contract was cancelled by mutual consent.

With his new free agent status, he joined Doncaster on an 18-month contract.

However, Doncaster turned out to be the final club of his career, retiring in 2012.

The mystery footballer can be revealed as Habib Beye.

After retiring, Beye has tried his hand in management and punditry.

Beye, now rocking short hair and a grey beard, can be seen on Canal+.

The charming 35-capped Senegal icon is also the current manager of Red Star Football Club.

Red Star play in the French third tier, the Championnat National.

PA:Press AssociationHabib Beye joined Newcastle from Marseille in 2007[/caption]

Beye also manages Red Star in FranceAction Images – Reuters  Read More 

Advertisements