Newcastle United have confirmed they will play top Holland side PSV Eindhoven at St. James’ Park on July 31st, which is the first anniversary of the great man’s death last year.
Bobby Robson – next to his statue in St. James’ Park
Bobby managed PSV twice, the first one being for two years after he was England manager – from 1990-1992 and the second from 1998-1999 before he became manager of Newcastle United from 1999-2004.
In his first stint at PSV he won the Dutch League in both years – 1990–91 and 1991–92.
The game will rightly promote the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which Bobby set up to help tackle the illness in the region.
That was an act that was typical of the man, and currently the great Alan Shearer is honored to serve as Patron of the organization.
Newcastle manager Chris Hughton said:
“It’s a combination of a few things, the appeal of PSV Eindhoven, and, of course the Sir Bobby Robson anniversary as well, and I’m sure that will make for another superb occasion.”
“It’s a good quality game for us and one that we and the fans can look forward to.” “It’s always trying to get the balance right between the standard of the opposition and a different style of football.”
” PSV are a very competitive team, and they will come with a good side and looking to compete.” “They’ll be very close to the start of their season as well, and it’s the right standard of game that we’re looking for.”
With a trip to Manchester United due up as the first game of the season on August 14th, this will be a good test of the new Newcastle side.
The match will likely be an emotional one for both sets of fans as they honor a man who wasn’t only a great manager but was even a better person – and he really loved the Newcastle club – just like the rest of us.
Bobby Robson was loved by the football world and still is. as somebody who was always a gentleman and his management record was unbelievable – and Bobby is probably the best English-born manager ever.
Comments welcome.
1 comment so far
Sav
Jun 17, 2010 at 1:04 PM
Comment #1No need for hype, Ed. We know who the man was and respect him as an ordinary human being.