Not going to pretend I knew this man whilst he played for NUFC, in fact I wasn't born. Just read the sad news that he's passed away, Pancreatic cancer. The frightening thing about this is, I attended the same gym as him and must have only seen him 2 months ago (My sister works there and spoke to him regularly and told me he was a Toon player in his day). He always gave it some in the gym, I spoke to him a few times. I heard about a month ago that he'd been diagnosed and didn't have long. In the space of what seems about 6 weeks, he went from going to the gym 5 times a week and being very active, to sadly dying. Frightening. Here's an article if you've never heard if him: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tyne-22425946 The former Newcastle United footballer Steve Carney has died at the age of 55. The defender, originally from Newcastle, joined United from Blyth Spartans in 1979 and played 134 times for the club over six years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year. He was an electrician by trade and described as a "tremendous competitor" in the 1970s. He was part of the Blyth squad that came to national attention when they reached the FA Cup fifth round in 1978. Mr Carney, known as a "no-nonsense" defender, also had spells at Carlisle United, Darlington, Rochdale and Hartlepool United. His performances for Blyth caught the eye of the Newcastle manager at the time Bill McGarry who signed him for £1,000.
I was around to see Steve play and considering he came from non league football ( Blyth Spartans ) he didn't let the team down when called upon. Played I think 134 games for the Toon and was certainly better than some of our expensive signings. May he R.I.P
I was at the Blyth Spartans game at St James' Park - as a young boy - and also remember Steve giving his all in a Toon Shirt. He grafted and was one of us. RIP Steve - God bless your family at this time.
Very sad news, heard Steve Harmison mention something about him having cancer on twitter a few weeks back. RIP.
