Newcastle United legend Rob Lee has told Football FanCast exclusively,that Geordies just want to be entertained by the team and will forgive and forget not winning anything.
Lee played under Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson who were managers during Newcastle’s golden era but didn’t win any major trophies. However, fans still only have fond memories of both managers and would not trade those memories for anything.
Under Keegan, Newcastle were known as the entertainers; however, now they are an unattractive team to watch and have been for a number of years with their gameplan being not to lose.
Is being entertained enough for fans?
Yes, it’s what football is all about!
No, you have to win trophies!
The Magpies have become a relegation candidate regularly under Mike Ashley, something Lee still can’t believe considering how the teams played during his successful spell on Tyneside.
Steve Bruce’s side sit second bottom of the possession table this season, only West Bromwich Albion have enjoyed less time with the ball. However, Lee knows the manager is not the problem.
The former Newcastle midfield told Football FanCast how things have changed under managers and specifically, the owner; he said:
“Since I’ve known them they’ve always wanted to play good football. You know, we lost the title in 1996 and we should have won it but they saw some unbelievable football. People still remember that football.
“For the Keegan years, and Bobby Robson, they didn’t win anything but they saw great football and you know, they were happy.
“You’re right we can’t compete with Brighton. Keep going back to when I played, but nobody came to St James’s Park and played us off the park, no one. I don’t think I can remember an unentertaining game at St James’ Park and that’s what they want.
“It’s more a game of chess at this point instead of actually getting players in who can express themselves.
“It can’t be any worse than it is now. The football is not great. We’re losing every week anyway. As I said, I don’t blame Steve Bruce for that. I’ve always blamed the owner.”
Pundits often label Newcastle as wanting too much and questioning what do they expect under the owner and manager, but Lee explains it is very simple to understand.
Fans pay their money to go and watch Newcastle, they just want to be entertained and not bored for the entire match.