Sir Bobby Robson's five-year reign as Newcastle United manager came to an end this morning when the club's board decided to "dispense with his services".
Robson, who turned Newcastle's fortunes around after replacing Ruud Gullit in September 1999, has paid the price for a poor start to the season that sees the Magpies languishing in 16th place in the Premiership following Saturday's 4-2 defeat to Aston Villa.
The 71-year-old had also found his authority undermined by chairman Freddy Shepherd's refusal to extend his contract beyond the end of the season and a high-profile dispute with midfielder Kieron Dyer.
A club statement read: "After a disappointing start to the Barclays Premier League season, the directors of Newcastle United have informed Sir Bobby Robson they have decided that he is to be replaced as team manager."
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