Newcastle boss Chris Hughton sacked

Chris Hughton has parted company with Newcastle United, news which has stunned the Geordie faithful.

The news follows on from Newcastle's disappointing 3-1 away defeat to West Brom at the weekend. The result leaves Newcastle 11th in the table but the board decided to axe Hughton saying they need a manager with more experience.

The former Spurs player led the Toon Army back to the Premier League last season, after winning the Championship in his first season in charge.

The club statement released by the club said: "The board would like to place on record their thanks to Chris for his considerable efforts during the club's transition from Championship to Premier League club."

"Chris has shown exceptional character and commitment since being appointed manager in October 2009. The club wishes him well in the future."

"The task of appointing a new manager now begins. An announcement will be made shortly regarding transitional arrangements pending the appointment of a successor."

Hughton's position at Newcastle seemed safe after they thrashed bitter rivals Sunderland 5-1 and also recorded a convincing 6-0 win against Aston Villa. Wins against Chelsea and Arsenal in this campaign weren't enough either for Hughton.

But recent away performances against Bolton and West Brom saw the board act swiftly in a search to improve form.

Female First - Chris Mayer