Unwanted by Kevin Keegan, the Newcastle striker had already been shipped out on loan to Stoke City, and his future was away from St James' Park.
Keegan Exit Was Major Boost To Ameobi Career!
But the 27-year-old snubbed offers from West Brom, Hull City, Ipswich Town and Norwich City, and suddenly he is back in the frame at SJP.
The former England Under-21 international may not be everyone's idea of the sort of striker we will build our future on, but at least he has always been available for selection in times of trouble ... unlike some of our over-seas imports.
Ameobi: "I'm delighted to sign a new deal and commit my future to Newcastle United.
"I hadn't played for a while and had to prove myself again. Thankfully I believe I did that.
"Now I can look forward to playing a lot more games for Newcastle, which didn't look likely a few months ago.
"I believe I can do that and now my future is in order I can focus on getting it right on the pitch.
"I am confident I can do it and the club are also, which they have shown by their faith with the contract.
"Now it's down to me to prove that."