Replacing Sir Bobby Robson - Shepherd Comments

By Matthew Jones
August 31 2004

After relieving Sir Bobby Robson from his duties at Newcastle United, chairman Freddy Shepherd speaks out - giving his reasons ("results on the field") and also comments on the search for a new manager.

Many names have been linked with the vacant position at the club, including: Gerrard Houllier, Alan Shearer, Steve Bruce, Martin O'Neill and Terry Venables, but at the moment, it is all speculation.

Speaking to the Official Website, nufc.co.uk, Shepherd said:

"It was a tough decision to part company with Bobby, one of the toughest I've had to make.

"We spoke of our admiration for the man in the statement we released on Monday when we announced the decision, and it is very upsetting when you part company with a great guy like Bobby. But in situations like this there is no room for sentiment.

"We thank Bobby for the job he did in his five years at the club, but we have to look forward now.

"This business is driven by results on the field, and they were not good enough. That's why we had to make the decision.

"The search begins now for a new manager, and as soon as we have any news to report it will appear on the official website." 

Newcaslte fans obviously didn't want such a legend to leave the club, and we had Liverpool fans writing in with their views.