Newcastle Force Robson Out

Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson has been sacked by the club after their poor start to the Premiership season.



Robson, who was set to leave at the end of the season after five years at the club, was devastated by his dismissal.

"I am massively disappointed not to be able to finish the job I came here to do," said Robson."

"I have immensely enjoyed my time here as manager, and I wish the club all the best of success in the future."

"At the present moment, I have absolutely nothing to say except to thank the Geordie fans for their tremendous enthusiasm, loyalty and support."

It is still uncertain how the Newcastle fans will react to this news but it is thought they may protest against such an incompetant board.

It could be argued that Robson's position at St James' Park was given the kiss of death back at the start of August by Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd.

Shepherd confirmed to the media, apparently before telling his manager, that he would not extend Robson's contract when it expired at the end of the 2004-2005 season.

In recent weeks Sir Bobby Robson has been let down by two of the players he signed during his tenure; Kieran Dyer and Craig Bellamy.

It is a tragic shame that two mediocore players can have such an affect on the manager's position.

On Saturday, Robson left talismanic striker Alan Shearer sitting on the bench at Villa Park. Five years and three days earlier his predecessor Ruud Gullit had done the same against Sunderland, and he was forced out immediately afterwards.

Early speculation has also placed Alan Shearer as favourite and also linked former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier, Celtic's Martin O'Neill and Birmingham's Steve Bruce with the vacancy.