Newcastle United have long been a club associated with unrest and instability, particularly stemming from the club’s hierarchy which has endured a largely tempestuous relationship with the fans over the years.
By Andy Sixsmith
So it came as a relative surprise to hear that current manager Alan Pardew has signed a new long-term eight-year deal to keep him at the Sports Direct Arena until 2020.
The former West Ham and Charlton manager has worked wonders since taking over from Chris Hughton in December 2010, guiding the team to fifth in the Premier League in only his second full season in charge of the club.
The clinching of that European spot saw Pardew named both the Premier League Manager of the Season and League Manager’s Association Manager of the Year.
The 2011-12 season was ultimately a defining year for the club, with an improvement in transfer policy that saw players such as Yohan Cabaye and Papiss Cisse arrive in the North East and the relationship between manager and board practically seamless in comparison with previous seasons.
And that advancement has now been recognised by the club, who have seen their offer of a new eight-year contract accepted by Pardew.
