Dan Burn has revealed Sir Bobby Robson is a key reason behind his “love” for Newcastle United. The legendary manager would have been celebrating his 90th birthday on the same day the Magpies take on Liverpool.
Wor Flags are preparing an emotional tribute in the East Stand to commemorate the occasion. Blyth-born defender Burn was in the academy ranks during Robson’s five-year managerial spell at St James’ Park.
Released by his boyhood club as an 11-year-old, the defender has been a revelation since his Tyneside return last year. Burn helped stave off relegation upon arrival and has deputised at left-back in 2022-23 to play a key part in the Champions League push.
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Speaking to NUFC TV, the 30-year-old discussed how Sir Bobby helped induce his initial love for Newcastle. Burn said: “I hope it's going to be a huge tribute. I started watching (football) just as Sir Bobby was at Newcastle. That’s sort of why I fell in love with football and fell in love with the club.
“(They were) some great times, the Champions League nights... I've said in an interview before, he (Sir Bobby) felt like a member of the family who sort of meant that much to you. When he was sacked, I was gutted. Absolutely gutted. And probably never really got over it. I know Wor Flags are going to do a big display so it'll be an emotional day.”
The Toon defender also drew comparisons between Robson’s time to the mutual bond experienced between the club and supporters now. Burn added: “My whole generation is the age that just started watching Newcastle around 2000 when he (Sir Bobby) first came in.
“It feels very similar to now, that sort of connection the whole city had with the football club. The players were like gods back then.”
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