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Shola Ameobi turns 35 today and the man affectionately known as ‘The Mackem Slayer’ on Tyneside is yet to officially confirm his retirement, despite being without a club since leaving League One Fleetwood Town in May.

The Fenham-born striker scored 79 goals in 397 games during a 19-year association with Newcastle United and has since enjoyed spells at Crystal Palace, Bolton Wanderers, Fleetwood and, bizarrely, Turkish side Gaziantep BB.

But what exactly is Ameobi up to now?

I caught up with the ex-Nigeria international in February and, at the time, Ameobi spoke of the ‘transition’ he was making from a player to a coaching role.

“Going into that mentoring role [at Fleetwood] and coaching role, that really fits nicely into the transition I’m wanting at this stage,” the Geordie striker said.

“If I do indeed want to be a coach, which I’m still thinking about, then this is a good stepping stone for me to be here and learning from the likes of Steven Pressley.”

Indeed Ameobi is in the process of getting his UEFA coaching badges and, though he is yet to decide if management is definitely for him, he admitted he will explore that avenue.

“It’s daunting thinking about the future it because this is what I have done all of my life,” he continued.

“I’m in the middle of my UEFA A-Badge, so I’m getting my coaching badges as we speak.

“It’s something I will explore once the time comes to retire.”

Such is his love for Newcastle United, do not be surprised if the so-called ‘Fenham Eusebio’ returns to St James’ Park in one capacity or another at some point in the future...