DISGRACEFUL PARDEW SHOULD GET THE BOOT

DISGRACEFUL PARDEW SHOULD GET THE BOOT

D. Ray Morton, 2nd March 2014.

Alan Pardew's stupidity completely overshadowed what was an excellent 4-1 away win for his Newcastle United side over Hull City at the KC Stadium yesterday. A brace from Moussa Sissoko and two more from Loic Remy and Vernon Anita gave the Tynesiders a fine victory but Pardew's ridiculous headbutt on David Meyler is the only talking point today. In the 72nd minute, Meyler ran past the Newcastle manager, retrieving the ball to take a quick throw-in. Pardew became enraged for some reason and clearly motioned his forehead aggressively towards the face of the Irish international leaving the referee with no choice but to send the 52 year-old manager to the stands.

A remarkable action considering how his team were leading. There was absolutely no need for this and it is but the latest in Pardew's list of unsavoury sideline incidents. Earlier this season, Pardew had mouthed obscenities at Manchester City manager, Manuel Pellegrini.

In 2012, he insulted Martin O'Neill with childish celebrations in their derby against Sunderland which led to both managers shouting hostilities at each other face-to-face. Pardew clearly has a mean streak and cannot control his emotions during matches. This latest incident might be a step too far and you would wonder whether Newcastle will use the opportunity to do away with their controversial manager. The headbutt incident can be seen as violent conduct which should qualify as breach of contract should the club want to go down that route. Pardew can potentially be sacked without any pay-off to take from his massive long-term deal. Their only action so far has been to fine Pardew £100,000 and make no further comments on the matter until the FA make their judgement. One would expect a lengthy touchline ban at the very least.

This has to be one of the strangest actions a manager has taken in the English game. In 2012, Fiorentina manager Delio Rossi attacked his own player, Adem Ljajic, and was promptly given the sack. Alan Pardew deserves the same and should have no complaints.