Newcastle have sacked their manager Sir Bobby Robson after the club’s poor start to the Premiership season.
Two points from four games have left the Magpies 16th in the league.
A statement from the club explained that the directors had told Robson that he was to be replaced as team manager.
The club have yet to announce a replacement for Robson, who has ben in charge at St James’ Park since 1999 when he replaced Ruud Gullit.
The Magpies were languishing at the foot of the table when Robson arrived, but under him they reached the FA and Uefa Cup semi-finals, third place in the Premiership and the second phase of the Champions League.
The club statement read: “The directors wish to thank Sir Bobby for the way in which he has worked tirelessly over the past five years to try to bring success to the club.
“The club agreed early in 2003 to extend Sir Bobby’s contract by one further season.
“However after careful consideration the club decided it was in the best interest of all concerned to revisit that decision.
“The club will no doubt continue to benefit from the knowledge and experience he has given during his time here.”
The club gave no indication as to the identity of Robson’s successor.