Former Newcastle United misfit Jon Dahl Tomasson is set to be appointed as the new Blackburn Rovers manager, according to Sky Sports. Toon fans were given a throwback to yesteryear when news flashed on the yellow ticker that Tomasson - who spent one year on Tyneside in the late 90s - will become Rovers boss.
The Dane was signed by Kenny Dalglish ahead of the 1997-98 season as a 21-year-old and given the daunting task of filling the void left by Les Ferdinand, who controversially left to join Tottenham Hotspur that same summer. Alan Shearer had forged a formidable strike partnership with “Sir Les” the previous season but Dalglish opted to break up the duo when Spurs offered £6million - just weeks after selling David Ginola to the London club.
Tomasson arrived as one of Europe’s most promising talents after bagging 18 goals for Heerenveen but struggled to make an impression at St James’ Park. Just four goals in 35 appearances resulted in Newcastle finishing 13th and the forward was sold to Feyenoord the following year.
Ironically, Tomasson would have a stellar career, winning the Eredivisie title in his debut season at Feyenoord before clinching a UEFA Cup triumph in 2002. A move to Italian giants AC Milan saw him realise his potential by winning Serie A and the Champions League - an astonishing feat considering the player Newcastle supporters witnessed.
Now, a management role at Blackburn is expected to be confirmed in the next 48 hours. This appointment would be Tomasson’s first experience in England since the disastrous spell in the North East 25 years ago. Rovers have been looking for a manager since Tony Mowbray’s five-year stint at Ewood Park came to an end last month.
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