Sacking Sir Bobby was the start of decline of Magpies
Oct 21 2010 by Luke Edwards, The Journal
KIERON Dyer believes Newcastle United’s decline begun with the shocking decision to sack Sir Bobby Robson after he had guided the club to a fifth-place finish in the Premier League.
Dyer is adamant Robson had not lost control of the dressing room and is convinced he would have continued to bring success if he had been allowed to remain in charge. But, just four games into the 2004-05 campaign, Robson was removed from office and the Magpies drifted into a decline which hit bottom with relegation to the Championship last year.
Dyer said: “It was an absolute privilege to play for Sir Bobby. I’ve said it before, he was like a father to me and I still remember some of the things he said to me now.
“I have fantastic memories of him. He is sorely missed. I think everyone in football misses him. He was one of the true greats and it would have been brilliant if he could have won that trophy with Newcastle.
“That would have crowned things for him. He is one of the best we have ever had in this country. It is scandalous he was sacked after Newcastle finished fifth in the league.
“You can trace Newcastle’s decline back to that decision in my opinion.” Although Dyer left St James’ Park in 2007 when Sam Allardyce became manager of the Tyneside club, he has never played against the Magpies because of injury.
The 31-year-old suffered a horrific setback in only his second game for the Hammers when he broke his leg in two places in a Carling Cup game against Bristol Rovers.
In all, he has played just 24 games for West Ham, but has managed to return to fitness this season after finally shaking off a hamstring complaint. He said: “I’m feeling fine. I’ve got a slight thigh strain which I’ve been playing with, but it is getting better and I’m just glad to be playing again.
“I hope it continues. I’m enjoying my football and it’s just a relief to finally recover from the broken leg.
“Obviously this is a game I’m really looking forward to. I’ve never played against Newcastle since I left and this will be a special day for me.
“It brings back a lot of memories and it has really got me thinking about the eight years I spent at the club.”
