Newcastle today sacked manager Chris Hughton, claiming they need someone with more experience to take charge.
Hughton was appointed following Newcastle's relegation from the Premier League in 2009 and led them to the Championship title in his first season at the helm.
Newcastle enjoyed a good start to this campaign but have gone five games without a win since their shock 1-0 victory at Arsenal last month and are just four points above the relegation zone following yesterday's 3-1 defeat at West Brom.
A statement on the Newcastle website said: "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."
Rumours surrounding the former Tottenham assistant manager began circulating several weeks ago until October's 5-1 demolition of local rivals Sunderland at St James' Park gave Hughton a stay of execution.
However, the Newcastle board acted swiftly following yesterday's poor showing at West Brom.
Martin O'Neill, Alan Curbishley and Alan Pardew have all emerged as early contenders to replace Hughton.
