Sam Allardyce has parted company with Newcastle United less than eight months since he replaced Glenn Roeder at the helm. The 53 year old appealed to fans and board alike as he spelled out a long term plan to reform the beleaguered club.

However, a string of poor results including a draw against Stoke in the FA Cup sealed the fate of 53 year old Allardyce. A statement from chairman Chris Mort read:

"(Club owner) Mike (Ashley) and I would like to place on record our thanks for Sam's efforts and wish him well for the future. A new manager has not yet been appointed at Newcastle United. We will make a further announcement on the managerial position when appropriate."