Newcastle MD - Hughton Did a Great Job

Hughton stepped in as caretaker manager for the third time following the club's relegation from the Barclays Premier League and after winning the job on a permanent basis, guided them back into the top flight at the first attempt.

However, he was sacked after guiding them back into the top flight at the first attempt in December 2010. He returns to Tyneside for the first time today looking for his first league win for Norwich.

Writing in his programme notes ahead of Sunday afternoon's game, Managing Director Derek Llambias said: 'I'm delighted to see Chris back in the top flight with Norwich, and no-one under-estimates the job that he did for us during what was a difficult time for the club.

'Our target ahead of our season in the Championship in 2009-10 was always to get back up to the Premier League at the first time of asking, and we were delighted to achieve that aim.

'The spirit that Chris and his team generated within the dressing room played a huge part as we worked towards winning the Championship title.

'Chris was very popular with our fans and I know everyone inside the stadium today will give him a great reception.'

Let`s hope Hughton`s strange dismissal has provided extra impetus for the side ahead of the trip to St. James`s Park today.