Newcastle United Football Club

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52193

Fergie: Give Sam more time

29 Dec 2007 - 12:42:52

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Sir Alex Ferguson claims he would be "astounded" if Newcastle United sack under-pressure manager Sam Allardyce.

The Manchester United boss is surprised that his Magpies counterpart has come in for such strong criticism following their 1-0 Boxing Day defeat to Wigan Athletic.

Ferguson believes the former Bolton Wanderers boss should be given more time to turnaround the St James' Park outfit and has accused the club of often acting in haste when it comes to firing managers.

"I would be astounded if they got rid of Sam," said the veteran Scot.

"Of all the managers they have had, he is capable of doing better than most.

"It seems to me as soon as Newcastle lose a game, the manager's career is threatened.

"The worst thing that happened to Newcastle was when they beat us 5-0. How many years ago was that?

"But since then, they seem to think they should win every game 5-0. I am not sure the Newcastle job is one you would want to take.

"I will certainly never understand why they got rid of Bobby Robson, given his experience and enthusiasm, plus the fact he is a Geordie."