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Newcastle sack Hughton

Newcastle claim Chris Hughton lacked the experience to lead the team in the Premier League © PA Photos

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Newcastle United have sensationally sacked manager Chris Hughton.

Hughton guided the club back to the Premier League at the first time of asking last season, but his position came under scrutiny after the club opted to put talks on a new deal on the back burner.

Shortly afterwards, Hughton led the Magpies to a stunning 5-1 win over north east rivals Sunderland - a victory that appeared to strengthen his hand.

However, a defeat to West Brom on Sunday was his last act as manager after the club took the decision to part ways - citing a desire to bring in an individual with "more managerial experience".

"Newcastle United Football Club have today parted company with manager Chris Hughton. Goalkeeping coach Paul Barron also leaves the club today," read a statement on the club's official website.

"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 said in a statement: "We have built on last season's momentum following promotion back up to the Premier League and have produced some excellent results to see us sitting midway in the table at this stage of the season.

"I am immensely proud of my achievements with Newcastle and I enjoyed a fantastic relationship with the players, my staff and the supporters during my time as manager.

"I now wish them and the club all the very best for the future. The termination of my contract is now in the hands of the LMA and I will therefore be making no further comment at this stage."

Richard Bevan, chief executive of the LMA, said: "The LMA is extremely disappointed that Newcastle have parted company with Chris given the success the club has experienced since his appointment.

"Not only did Chris secure promotion back to the Premier League, but achieved two club records in the process; 102 points to secure promotion and the longest sequence of unbeaten league matches (17).

"Throughout his time at Newcastle, Chris has conducted himself with tremendous integrity and dignity, the team's current position of 11th demonstrating the stabilising effect Chris has had in his role as manager during his period at Newcastle."

The Magpies have placed Newcastle legend Peter Beardsley in temporary charge of first-team affairs at St James' Park.

Alan Pardew and Martin O'Neill have been linked with the vacant position, at St James' while former Tottenham boss Martin Jol resigned as Ajax manager on Monday evening.

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