Both teams last night paid tribute to Sir Bobby Robson who managed both clubs during his fabulous career.
Bobby was remembered before the game, as part of Porto’s 125th birthday celebrations – and there was a minute of applause for our former manager.
The great man finally lost his battle with cancer almost exactly nine years ago – on 31st July 2009.
The banner unveiled by both teams before the game last night
Bobby managed many clubs – Fulham, PSV, Sporting Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona and of course his hometown club Newcastle United for five years from 1999.
He also managed England for eight years from 1982 and had us in the semi-finals of the World Cup in 1990 losing 4-3 on penalties to West Germany, who went on to beat Argentina 1-0 in the final.
Rafa Benitez was asked about the tribute to Sir Bobby after the game and he talked about the result:
“It was nice.”
“To show that you have the recognition at both FC Porto and Newcastle United is just a measure of the man.”
“I don’t care too much about the result, it’s only pre-season.”
“It’s good to have a clean sheet but they created enough chances to win the game.”
“We can’t forget that the average club in England or Germany has more purchasing power than a strong club in Portugal.
“We are a country of sellers, not buyers.”
It was very fitting last night to see both clubs remember Sir Bobby Robson – who was a role model to many of us.
Comments welcome.
3 comments so far
crawfordm
Jul 29, 2018 at 12:32 PM
Comment #1I remember ( as will some of the older supporters) of the time when Keegan quit the first time. The club went after Sir Bobby however he was a man of his word and saw out his contract at Barcelona ( he did recommend a certain Jose Mouriniho at the time) We did have the honour of the wonderful man as our manager. A wonderful man as well as a fantastic manager. We miss you Sir Bob.
DubaiMicky
Jul 29, 2018 at 12:40 PM
Comment #2When I watched the film I’m not embarrassed to say it brought a tear or two to my eyes.
mactoon
Jul 29, 2018 at 2:46 PM
Comment #3The new documentary is excellent, a must see for any football fan.