Sir Bobby to Carry on in Portugal?

By Matthew Jones
August 31 2004

Magpies' midfielder Hugo Viana, who is currently on loan at Sporting Lisbon, believes that his former boss will be given the chance to manage in Portugal after being 'relieved of his duties' at St James' Park.

Viana said:

"People in Lisbon are talking about nothing else and I don't think anyone can believe Newcastle have parted company with Sir Bobby.

"It was the main story on TV all day and I heard several commentators suggest he would return to Portugal.

"We had our differences, but he is the most knowledgable manager I have worked with and I would work with him again."

Viana added:

"I am very surprised it has happened now and I'm very disappointed for Sir Bobby.

"I don not understand why he has been sacked at this stage of the season. In both my seasons at Newcastle, we started slowly to play ourselves into a strong position.

"Plus, Sir Bobby had made some excellent signings in the close season and the squad is far stronger now than it was two years ago."