Quasimodo Takes Charge Of Newcastle

Following the unexpected sacking of Chris Hughton earlier today Peter Beardsley has been appointed caretaker manager. Newcastle's official website announced Hughton's Departure earlier, the statement read " Newcastle United Football Club have today parted company with manager Chris Hughton. Goalkeeping coach Paul Barron also leaves the club today. 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 football. Chris has shown exceptional character and commitment since being appointed manager in October 2009. The club wishes him well for the future. Regrettably the board now feels that an individual with more managerial experience is needed to take the club forward. 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 was in charge from June 1st 2009,  he leaves the club with a record of 39 wins, 14 defeats and 17 draws. Beardsley was assistant manager of the English national side during Howard Wilkinson's period as caretaker manager. He was also a member of the Newcastle coaching staff from 1999 until Glenn Roeder was appointed.