Newcastle United: The all-time top five managers in club history

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NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, UNITED KINGDOM – JANUARY 15: Kenny Dalglish faces the media as he is unveiled as the new manager of Newcastle United, replacing the recent resignation of Kevin Keegan, pictured alongside chairman Sir John Hall (c) and Terry McDermott at St James’ Park on January 15, 1997 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Stevie Morton/Allsport//Getty Images) /

Kenny Dalglish (1997-1998)

It is never easy to follow a club legend, and changing a culture can prove to be difficult. While he did not last long at Newcastle United, Kenny Dalglish brought major excitement to St. James’ Park during his time at the helm.

Coming out of retirement to replace Kevin Keegan, Dalglish certainly knew he had a tall task in front of him. “The Entertainers” era was winding down, as Les Ferdinand and Peter Beardsley departed Newcastle that season.

Keegan felt that he had pushed his players as far as they could go, but their new manager was able to finish in a respectable position. United were runners-up in the Premier League that campaign.

The following year saw a run to the FA Cup final (a 2-0 loss to Arsenal), but it was on the European stage where Dalglish will always be remembered fondly.

The 1997-98 UEFA Champions League group stage brought a thrilling 3-2 victory over Barcelona, in one of the most amazing victories in club history. Striker Faustino Asprilla netted a hat-trick in the encounter, and left the club only months later.

In some ways, it was a similar fate for Dalglish.

Never too popular amongst fans for his style of play, he did what he could with what he had. The club was in the midst of major change, but the Scotsman kept the team competitive.

While he did not capture silverware, Kenny Dalglish brought extreme highs and special moments during his short time as Newcastle United manager.

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