A medal won by Newcastle United legend Jimmy Richardson in one of the most contentious FA Cup finals played at Wembley is to be auctioned.

Richardson - the longest-serving club man in Newcastle's history - won the medal in 1932.

He played a key role in the dramatic win and the controversial goal which helped United defeat Arsenal 2-1.

Richardson chased a ball to the byline and crossed for team-mate Jack Allen to equalise.

Thinking the ball had crossed the byline, the Arsenal defence made no attempt to tackle Allen and were astonished when the referee allowed the goal.

The majority of supporters were convinced that the ball had gone out of play and the goal remains a controversial talking point in FA Cup history.

After cup glory at the Twin Towers, Newcastle's form slumped and by 1934 they had been relegated for the first time in their history.

Richardson's medal is expected to fetch up to £6,000 in the 19-lot sale at Christie's, in South Kensington, London, on March 26.

His complete set of medals, England caps and shirt is expected to raise up to £20,000.

Richardson's cup final shirt is estimated at up to £3,500 and the sale also includes memorabila relating to his career with Blyth Spartans, Huddersfield Town, Milwall, Leyton Orient and England schoolboys.

The collection is being offered from a private source and it was not clear if it was consigned by a descendant.

Richardson, described as a skilled and hard-working inside-forward, was born in Ashington, Northumberland, on February 8, 1911. He began his career with Northumberland Schools and then Blyth Spartans before signing for Newcastle in 1928 for the first of two spells with the club.

Richardson, who was a motor mechanic when he joined United, served the club for 48 years as a player and trainer, from 1929 to 1977.

He made his debut for England against Italy, in Rome, in 1933 and scored two goals.

A Magpies expert said last night: "This medal is a slice of club history. Bidding is bound to be brisk.

"Any fan would be proud to have it in their collection."

The Newcastle team which beat Arsenal in the 1932 FA Cup final was: McInroy, Nelson, Fairhurst, MacKenzie, Davidson, Weaver, Boyd, Richardson, Allen, McMenemy, Lang.