Sacked in December 2011, Chris Hughton’s departure from Newcastle United was seen as one of the most nonsensical decisions in the club’s, if not the Premier League’s, recent history.
The former Republic of Ireland international took over the St. James’ Park managerial reigns temporarily in the off-season of 2009, with the club in turmoil.
The Magpies had just been relegated from the Premier League, the club was up for sale, and their star players were rapidly being shipped out the door.
Hughton went on to not only stabilize the club, but save it, and thrust it back into the Premier League, smashing several records along the way.
He brought calmness, dignity and respect back to Newcastle United. He was both loved by the Geordie faithful, and widely respected across the Premier League.
Hughton was sacked by Newcastle United with the club sat 12th place in the Premier League – strange considering the ongoing support for his successors in far less comfortable positions.
Fans may still wonder “what if?” to this day had Hughton not been wrongfully dismissed.
The 57-year-old is currently in charge of Brighton and Hove Albion, who sit 4th in the Sky Bet Championship.
Here, we take a look back at some of the very best moments under Chris Hughton.
