Newcastle captain Alan Smith has welcomed the decision to give Chris Hughton the managerial role on a permanent basis.
Hughton was rewarded with a contract until the end of the 2010/11 season having helped the Magpies to the top of the Championship during his caretaker role.
Smith, handed the armband in the absence of Nicky Butt, told the club's official website: "The news was definitely welcomed among the lads. What he's achieved this season has been massive.
"But what he's done for the club in taking over the reins at difficult times in the past proves his commitment towards the football club.
"It was difficult again at the start of this season but he's done a brilliant job and the lads are right behind him.
"He's got this opportunity now and it's thoroughly deserved because of everything he's done."
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Nice Guy but no way is he a manager otherwise he would have subbed Smithy in the second minute of the Forest game after his booking which restricted his game, also playing the hapless Harwood in front of the young talented Nile Ranger - who did change the Doncaster game when he came on! I hope Chris learns how to make bigger decisions to win games as we are stuck with him for the next 18months - he could start by sending Harwood back to where he came from and telling Sol Campbell stay wherever he is, we are fast becoming a club full of cockney rejects - what a sad joke we have become!
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