Hughton Guides Newcastle Back To The Promised Land

Newcastle united returned to the Premier League triumphantly hoping to emulate the success of recent promoted teams like Reading, Birmingham City and Wolves. They hope they can avoid becoming the dreaded yo-yo club that promotion rivals West Brom have become.

United's charge to promotion was led by the much-maligned Chris Hughton. For much of his reign Hughton was criticised for his sides tactics and his team selections. Of course on Tyneside thing are never done easily. With his side on the verge of sealing promotion, the story that young striker Andy Carroll and club captain Steven Taylor were involved in a fight that left Carroll's hand broken had been splashed all over the papers. However, Hughton handled the entire situation admirably and never allowed off the field issues to distract his players from bouncing straight back from last year's relegation.

Hughton knew that he had a squad more than capable of dominating the Coca-Cola Championship but also knew that some fresh blood was required to get the best from his team. Key signings Danny Simpson and Mike Williamson helped shore up a defence that shipped little goals this season. The other major impact from Hughton's dealings was re-signing Danish international Peter Lovenkrands after the forward initially turned down the chance to extend his stay with the Magpies. Winger Wayne Routledge helped provide some additional creativity in the latter part of the season.

Hughton's greatest achievement this season was definitely the performances he got from players tat were so woefully out of form when the side were relegated. Stand-out performers Jose Enrique and Fabricio Coloccini looked nothing like the same defenders that defended like an under-eights team chasing after the ball. Enrique in particular had a magnificent season and should be a contender for player of the year. Kevin Nolan has already won a player of the year accolade and the Liverpudlian rediscovered the goal scoring form from midfield that had him talked about in terms of an England call-up a few years ago. Similarly, Jonas Gutierrez showed the kind of form that has led to Argentina coach Diego Maradonna claim the winger to be one of his 4 definites for his world cup squad. Gutierrez finally opened his account on Tyneside and the fans were then soon treated to his infamous Spiderman mask celebration when he scored against Barnsley.

Hughton proved this season that he can clearly work well with talented players who are motivated to play for the cause. With a few new signings next year could see Newcastle re-establish themselves in the top flight.