"It was a tough decision to part company with Bobby, one of the toughest decisions I've had to make," Shepherd said.

"We spoke of our admiration for the man in the statement we released on Monday when we announced the decision, and it is very upsetting when you part company with a great guy like Bobby.

"But in situations like this there is no room for sentiment."

Robson, 71, was "relieved of his duties" after a meeting with Shepherd on Monday morning to review what has been a troubled start to the new season for the Magpies, on and off the pitch.

Newcastle have taken just two points from their opening four Premiership matches and Robson's position had been further undermined by insubordination from some players, perhaps fuelled by the club's pre-season announcement that this would be the veteran manager's last in charge.

Robson has failed to bring any silverware back to St James' Park since he took over in 1999.

But he has established Newcastle as one of the top five clubs in England while earning respect in Europe with runs to the second phase of the 2002-03 Champions League and the semi-finals of the UEFA Cup last season.