But never in his wildest dreams did he imagine he would end up as full-time manager of Newcastle United.

Hughton left White Hart Lane – where he spent the bulk of his playing career – in October last year after a 14-year coaching career at the club.

Within four months, he was back at work at St James's Park as assistant to Kevin Keegan, and having thought he had seen everything during his time at Tottenham, Hughton would have been forgiven for being surprised at what the club held in store for him.

Now permanent manager, the 50-year-old is hoping for a perod of stability, with the club – for now – no longer for sale, and his own position cemented.

Asked if he had any idea what United had in store for him when he joined the club, Hughton told the Gazette: "No, I never imagined being in this position, but it just goes to show that you can't rule anything out in football, and the way the game chops and changes these days, you shouldn't be surprised.

"In all honestly, I didn't expect that when I came here, but if you look at the circumstances over the last couple of years, and they've dictated where I am now. I'm very honoured and grateful for the position."

Hughton admits his relationship with the players he has guided through a troubled few months will inevitably change now he is full time manager.

"I think the perception of myself does change now,even though it might not feel like it as you're still doing the same work with the players as you were before," added Hughton.

"But there is a difference between how people look at you, or perceive you, when you are a temporary manager and when you have the job on a permanent basis.

"These are things I accept, but they're facts that don't smack you in the face every five minutes, you just get on with the job you have."