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On this day: Temuri Ketsbaia joins Newcastle United

Back on this day in 1997, Newcastle United complete the signing of Georgian attacker Temuri Ketsbaia.

The Premier League has boasted some of the world's best (and worst) footballers since its inception back in 1992.

Those players have produced countless memorable goals, which in turn has resulted in some unforgettable celebrations. For example, we all remember Lee Sharpe's 'Sharpey Shuffle' or the somersaulting Lomana Lua Lua. Then there is the one arm raised above the head - a trademark of Alan Shearer.

However, arguably the most extraordinary celebration in Premier League history came from Temuri Ketsbaia, who signed for Newcastle United on a free transfer 17 years ago today.

The Georgian attacking midfielder found it difficult to hold down a regular place in the starting lineup from the outset at St James' Park, which culminated in his antics after he had scored a match-winning goal in the closing stages of a home clash against Bolton Wanderers in January 1998.

Having started the encounter on the bench, Ketsbaia found the back of the net in the final minute. However, rather than show his jubilation, he oozed anger. First the shirt came off and then having failed to remove his boots, Ketsbaia proceeded to kick the advertising hoardings behind the goal, ignoring the teammates that had sped over to congratulate him.

Speaking recently to the Newcastle Chronicle about that moment, Ketsbaia said: "Every time I speak with someone they ask about this celebration. I scored a goal, I was happy to score a goal but I was not happy to not be playing and I was frustrated.

"It's not a normal celebration, but I play with passion and all I wanted to do was play. It was not malicious. Now, looking back, as a coach I understand this is not the way that a player should behave. I wouldn't be happy, but then I would admire the passion of the player."

After 78 Premier League appearances, Ketsbaia departed Tyneside for Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he would spend one season before having a stint in Scotland with Dundee. He then played for and managed Cypriot outfit Anorthosis Famagusta, but is now the current head coach of the Georgian national side.

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Paul Gascoigne celebrates scoring against Scotland for England on June 15, 1996.
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