Sacked but ´proud´ Hughton issues statement

Sacked Newcastle United boss Chris Hughton has issued an open farewell to the club, saying he is ‘immensely proud’ of all he achieved there.

Hughton was sensationally axed from St. James’ Park on Monday, one day after the Magpies lost 3-1 to West Bromwich Albion in the English Premier League.

That loss – Newcastle’s third in five matches – saw the club fall to 11th on the league table with 19 points from 16 fixtures. It was enough to convince the Magpies board to dump Hughton in favour of someone with ‘more managerial experience’.

The 51-year-old, who led the Magpies to promotion from the Championship last term, released a joint statement with the League Managers’ Association (LMA) wishing his former club all the best for the remainder of their top-flight campaign.

“We have built on last season’s momentum following promotion back up to the Premier League and have produced some excellent results to see us sitting midway in the table at this stage of the season,” Hughton said.

“I am immensely proud of my achievements with Newcastle and I enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the players, my staff and the supporters during my time as manager.”

“I now wish them and the club all the very best for the future. The termination of my contract is now in the hands of the LMA and I will therefore be making no further comment at this stage.”

The LMA expressed shock at Hughton’s axing, arguing the former Republic of Ireland international had done enough to warrant serving out the remaining six months on his contract.

“The LMA is extremely disappointed that Newcastle have parted company with Chris given the success the club has experienced since his appointment,” LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan said.

“Not only did Chris secure promotion back to the Premier League, but achieved two club records in the process; 102 points to secure promotion and the longest sequence of unbeaten league matches (17).”

“Throughout his time at Newcastle, Chris has conducted himself with tremendous integrity and dignity, the team’s current position of 11th demonstrating the stabilising effect Chris has had in his role as manager during his period at Newcastle.”

Reserve-team manager Peter Beardsley will take over from Hughton in a temporary basis while a permanent replacement is sought.