Now fellow Northern Ireland icon Keith Gillespie is praising the 21-year-old.
United have loaned Ferguson out to Birmingham City until April under one of Gillespie’s former team-mates, Lee Clark.
Keith Gillespie: “I’ve seen Shane on a few occasions and he is someone who has really impressed.
“I’m glad to see he has gone on loan because he needs to get regular first-team action to enhance his game.
“So hopefully he can do well and come back and stake a place for a regular first-team spot with Newcastle.”