‘My favourite would be Steven Gerrard’: How pundits and key figures reacted to Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle exit
Click and scroll through the pages to see how they have reacted to the dreaded news...
1. Guillem Balague
I have the impression that for some unfathomable reason there was no real interest in keeping him. Including renewal offers with no real reflection on the work done, delayed answers and false promises. Photo: Getty Images
2. Danny Murphy
Let’s not jump the gun and say: ‘it’s NUFC’s fault for not giving him enough money.’ But if it is NUFC being tight then they deserve a kick up the 'you know what'. Until the facts are out... it’s hard to say NUFC aren’t being ambitious. Photo: Michael Regan
3. Jake Humphrey
He was the beacon of hope, despite what has happened around, and above him.... He provided comfort, regardless of the pain elsewhere. Another abject, sorry, messy episode...and all NUFC fans deserve so much more. Photo: Catherine Ivill
4. Lee Clark
There will be a huge backlash from the supporters. They loved Rafa and the work he had done with limited resources. He wanted to develop the club, he is a manager used to competing for the biggest trophies. Photo: Laurence Griffiths