Harry Crowe and Ewan West have taken a closer look at eight former newbie managers who have previously taken charge of Boro, Newcastle and Sunderland. Scroll down and flick through our picture gallery to see if they’ve been a hit or a miss in the dugout.
5. Alan Shearer (Newcastle) - Miss - (Appointed April 2009, aged 38. Left May 2009)
The Magpies legend took interim charge of Newcastle in difficult circumstances, with the club battling relegation from the Premier League. But while Shearer’s return was rapturously received by fans, he could not save United from the drop, earning just five points from eight games. Despite that, many fans wanted their legendary former No 9 to remain as manager but Newcastle owner Mike Ashley failed to make him an offer. Photo: Clive Brunskill