Robson’s side then went on to reach the semi-final of the UEFA Cup and challenged once more at the top of the Premier League. However, despite the ex-England boss leading United back into contention, within the opening weeks of the 2004/05 season, he was controversially sacked, with Graeme Souness brought in to replace him.
Historical eras. 2005-2010
Transition from Robson to Souness
Transition from Robson to Souness
Robson guides United to UEFA successRobson guides United to UEFA success
A Decade of Change at Newcastle
A Decade of Change at Newcastle
The former Liverpool star guided the Magpies to the UEFA Cup quarter-final and FA Cup semi-final, but it was the start of a downward spiral. With talisman Shearer nearing the end of his outstanding career, the arrival of his former England colleague Michael Owen from Real Madrid for a record fee showed the club’s intent. Newcastle, though, languished in the Premier League, and Souness didn’t stay long. Former skipper Glenn Roeder moved up from the club’s academy to take charge and steer the club away from relegation but was later replaced, with Sam Allardyce becoming Newcastle’s sixth manager in just ten years.
Relegation Recovery
Relegation Recovery
The summer of 2007 saw huge upheaval in the corridors of St. James’ Park as the Hall family sold their controlling interest to Mike Ashley. Allardyce was replaced, with Kevin Keegan returning for a second spell in charge in January 2008. It was a well-received appointment, but Keegan later left to be replaced by Joe Kinnear, with the Magpies’ on-field situation also worsening. After Kinnear’s departure, Shearer stepped in to take control in a last-gasp bid to halt a dramatic slide, but on the final day of the 2008/09 season the club were relegated after 16 years in the Premier League.
Newcastle turned to experienced coach Chris Hughton to help heal a broken club – and, to his credit, United returned to the top tier at the first attempt as Championship winners.