Former manager Graeme Souness is “pleased” for Newcastle United supporters despite their frosty relationship. The 69-year-old spent 18 months on Tyneside after Sir Bobby Robson’s sacking and was dismissed himself in February 2006 - with the Magpies sitting 15th in the Premier League.
Souness has previously admitted his time at St James’ Park forced him to shelve his managerial career. Last month, the ex-Liverpool midfielder told BBC Lancashire he regretted joining Newcastle, having left his post at Blackburn Rovers to do so.
Now, after the Magpies’ impressive start to the campaign, Souness has told fans to “enjoy the ride” and backed Eddie Howe to guide them to a European finish. As it stands, Newcastle have a slender one-point cushion in fourth spot over Manchester United.
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“I'm pleased they’re (Newcastle) doing well - just enjoy the ride,” he told talkSPORT. “I can see them quite easily getting in the top six and getting into Europe. It's the football they’re playing. It’s the belief they’re showing.
“They went to Anfield a couple of weeks ago and said ‘come on then, Liverpool, we’ll take you at your game.’ Against Spurs, they did the exact same thing last week. Newcastle supporters must be well chuffed.”
Souness also opened up about his own struggles in the North East. While admitting he found the job difficult, the ex-Toon boss acknowledged how anyone who delivers success would become an instant folk hero.
“It was an experience,” Souness added. “I found it a very hard job. I was like every manager prior to me and after me. When you walk into that stadium, you think ‘I could get this right’.
“They’ve not won a trophy since 1969 and you’re thinking ‘I'll be the one who can change this’ because, whoever gets it right there, will be able to walk across the Tyne. It could be an unbelievable football club.”
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