Shepherd replacedAlmost 10 years after first being appointed to the post and some 15 years after his initial investment with John Hall, Freddy Shepherd was removed as chairman of Newcastle United yesterday, writes Michael Walker.
There was no fanfare for what marks the end of an era at St James' Park, rather a terse, four-line statement that thanked Shepherd for his time while announcing that the deputy chairman, Chris Mort, would step up. As Mike Ashley's appointment, Mort was already the key decision-maker, but the new owner had allowed Shepherd to retain the title of chairman, on a salary. The 65-year-old has been ill lately and Ashley's offer appeared generous. But only 62 days after stunning football by buying John Hall's 41 per cent shareholding, and six days after taking the club back into private ownership, Ashley's sympathy looks to have folded. Shepherd, contractually, is due a two-year pay-off on his salary, roughly another £1 million. Guardian Service
City eye Juventus duo
Manchester City are attempting to sign the Juventus left-back Giorgio Chiellini and midfielder Manuele Blasi, both Italy internationals, a move that could prove successful after coach Claudio Ranieri admitted his squad is too large for next season, writes Paolo Menicucci in Milan.
Davide Lippi, son of the former Juventus and Italy coach Marcello Lippi and agent for both players, said he was meeting Juventus to discuss the future of the pair, adding that both would be keen to move to England, especially to play for Sven-Goran Eriksson. Guardian Service
Setanta name team
Setanta Sports have announced their commentary line-up for the coming Premier League season. As part of a new broadcasting deal, the channel will be showing 46 exclusive live games next season, and Jon Champion and Ian Crocker will be providing commentary with former Scottish international Craig Burley confirmed as co-commentator. Champion will continue to work with ITV Sport in addition to his new role.
In brief . . .
Fulhamboss Lawrie Sanchezexpects to know before the end of the week whether Michael Brownwill leave for Wiganafter accepting a £2 million bid . . . Evertonhave completed the signing of Borussia Dortmundmidfield man Steven Pienaaron a one-year loan deal after he was granted a work permit.
