Shepherd starts manager search

NEWCASTLE chairman Freddy Shepherd yesterday began the search for a new manager after admitting his decision to sack Bobby Robson was one of the toughest he has ever made.

Shepherd relieved Robson of his duties on Monday after the Magpies picked up just two points from their first four games of the season. And the news immediately sparked a swirl of speculation over Robson’s successor with Premiership rivals queuing up to distance their own bosses from the St James’ Park hotseat.

Alan Shearer is the clear favourite to succeed Robson but there is a growing feeling the Magpies striker is not yet ready to assume the post.