RIP Freddy Shepherd

Sad news today that former Newcastle United Chairman Freddy Shepherd passed away at his home his family confirmed.

The man famed for brining Alan Shearer to Newcastle United was 75 on his passing.

Son of a lorry driver Shepherd had made his fortune from property before taking a stake in Newcastle with the Hall family before eventually taking full control of the club.

His tenure was not without controversy with Hall and Shepherd caught in the infamous Fake Sheikh, News of the World sting, whilst the sacking of Bobby Robson after just 4 games of a season would also be a low point.

What Freddy Shepherd did bring to Newcastle United was an optimism and a big club mentality that made the World Record transfer even possible. The signing Michael Owen, for a while a ‘Newcastle Sporting Club’ and the Champions League.

In 2007 Shepherd sold up to Mike Ashely as ill health meant his approach, having already secured the Hall share of Newcastle, was in his best interests.

Tributes aplenty today from the club, Newcastle stars and others in the world of football showed just how highly he was regarded. Never dull they say…