Hughton breaks silence over sacking

Former Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton insists he feels no bitterness towards the ‘wonderful club’ that abruptly sacked him this month.

Hughton, speaking publicly for the first time since his shock departure from St James’ Park, said he saw no use dwelling on the past and was looking forward to continuing his managerial career at another club.

The 52-year-old was considered unjustly dismissed after leading Newcastle back to the Premiership last term, and little explanation – other than a desire for a manager with ‘more managerial experience’ – was provided by the club.

Hughton revealed he was sacked after training in the company of goalkeeping coach Paul Barron, and had no idea anything was amiss before his meeting with managing director Derek Llambias.

“I got a phone call in the morning from the managing director for myself and Paul to meet him at the stadium after training and I was told the news then,” Hughton told Sky Sports News.

“It was a complete surprise and there were lots of emotions.”

“It is not a nice thing to happen to anybody, but particularly at a time when it wasn’t expected. But that is part of the game and the reasons why they terminated the contract are their reasons.”

“I have been asked on numerous occasions for my own opinion why and the reality is I can’t say too much.”

“It was a very quick conversation that the club wanted to go in a different direction.”

Hughton says he remains proud of all he achieved with Newcastle, and is refusing to let resentment cloud the memories of his time there.

“I don’t think you can afford to be bitter. It’s a wonderful club and I had a fantastic time there over three years,” he said.

“These decisions are made, whether they are right or wrong, and they are made above your head and there is nothing you can do about it.”

“There is no point in dwelling on it too long. What you need to do is look forward.”

“I’ve had a career in the game and it is a career I want to continue.”