I might have regretted saying no - Souness

Graeme Souness feared he would regret it for the rest of his life if he turned down Newcastle.

The Scot left Blackburn to take what he believes may be his last chance to take charge of one of the country’s biggest clubs.

Former Rangers and Liverpool boss Souness told The Sun: “How can you turn down a club like Newcastle?

“I am 51 and been in the management business for a long time. But at my age, this could be the last opportunity for me to join one of the biggest clubs in the country.

“That is why I had to say yes. I explained my reasons to Blackburn. They were not very happy with my decision but I think they understood how I felt.

“I enjoyed my time there and was prepared to end my career with them before Newcastle came in.

“In football, events can happen suddenly and you have to react quickly – if I had said no I might have regretted it for the rest of my life.”

Birmingham boss Steve Bruce and Aston Villa manager David O’Leary were linked with the Newcastle hot-seat, but Souness was the surprise appointment.

He will take charge after his new club and former employees Blackburn clash this weekend.

Souness added: “No disrespect to Blackburn – but I am joining a world-famous club which is desperate for success. I can’t help but be excited at the prospect of joining one of the biggest clubs around.

“It is one of the best-supported clubs and everything is in place for it to be successful. I hope I can be the one that brings success to the fans.

“The prospect of trying to help them achieve their goals is a very exciting one. I am going to take a week’s gardening leave and will start at Newcastle next Monday. It would hardly have been appropriate to be in charge on Saturday when they are playing Blackburn!”