Former Newcastle boss Sir Bobby Robson admits he was "stunned" to hear of Sam Allardyce's departure as manager of the club.Robson, who lifted the club away from relegation after taking charge in 1999 and led them to Champions League qualification, was himself sacked by Newcastle in 2004.

Allardyce has left his post by "mutual agreement" after a poor start to the job, having taken over in May.

Robson told BBC Radio Five Live: "Like most people I was very surprised and stunned by the news.

"I was in his company on Tuesday night, I went to see Newcastle reserves play Sunderland reserves and Sam was there.

"So hearing the news was without doubt a surprise, and I am stunned. That's the eighth Premiership manager we've lost this season already. The pressure is too much now in the Premiership.

"The dismissals of manager are coming fast and frequent and it's rather sad for the game in many respects."

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