Sousa: "he didn't answer my last call".
Sousa, a defensive midfielder of the highest order and a giant of the Portuguese game, was signed from Benfica by Sir Bobby when he was manager of Sporting Lisbon. Though Paulo moved to Juventus barely a year later, the pair strick up a firm friendship which lasted until Sir Bobby’s death recently.
In tribute to the great man he said:
“I was shocked and deeply saddened by Sir Bobby’s death. He earned the right to be called Sir because of the recognition he had throughout World football from players, supporters, directors, etc.
“My sadness hurt even deeper because I tried to call him the day before he died. I had called him on a weekly basis for the previous 18 months to see how he was and to give him my support in his battle against illness.
“The way Sir Bobby fought against his illness was the same way he lived his life on a daily basis as a player and a manager – with enthusiasm, emotion, passion and courage.
“Sadly he didn’t answer my last call and the day after I realised why there was only silence.
“He was one of the best managers I have ever known and one of the kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet. His image and memory will remain with me forever.
“I hope his soul can come close to me on Saturday and give me all the happiness, emotions and enthusiasm that he always had.
“I remember how he was on the sidelines, the way he motivated his players and I hope it can inspire me at Newcastle.
“I feel him all the time and will never forget him. His spirit will be there and next to me all the time.
“I never forget his face or what he did for me. He made me feel important, made me believe in myself and taught me a lot of how to be a better person.
“He was the one that taught me to be more enthusiastic and not so shy.”
While they are moving and noble sentiments which I think most Newcastle United fans would wholeheartedly agree with, I think we’ll also be hoping the great man doesn’t give Paolo TOO much inspiration this Saturday!
The game itself could possibly be something of a defensive dogfight, as the two best defensive coaches in the Championship (though not the highest scoring) pit their wits against each other. Under the guidance of Sousa, Swansea are currently lying fourth in the Championship and should be a very tough nut to crack, even at home.
NUFCBlog Author: workyticket
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..Why not get a 
This is one of the best of the many tributes to SBR that I have read.
Agree with you Murvar – very moving
Here here.
Touching and seemingly spontaneous words that show what a humble yet great man Bobby Robson was. It’d be a nice gesture for the toon fans to give him a round of applause for his sentiments.
But, SBR was a Black and White at heart and I’m sure that whilst he wouldn’t wish anything but good on his former protege, he’d want a home win.
I’d like to think that CH feels humbled yet honoured to be able to walk the same ground as the great man and encourage his players to play for him and to the memory of SBR.
A wish for a fine day, a great match and an even greater result for the lads.
very nice words
Good craic, from a nice fella and a cracking player.
Saturday will be a good game of football. There might not be a hatful of goals (although there probably will be now I’ve said there won’t) but Swansea are a great footballing team.
I’m looking forward to it.
My Team for the weekend:
………………………………………..Harper
Simpson…………..S.Taylor……………….Colo……………………..Enrique
Pancake………………Guthrie……………….Smith(c)……………….Jonas
…………………………Nolan
…………………………………………………Lovenkrands
Some speed and ground football no long ball for Carroll or Ranger
Subs:
Krul, Zurab, R.Taylor, Geremi, Carroll, Ranger, Harewood
BBM – been sitting here waiting for your update from the NUST meeting? Any news?
Stardust, it looks like he’s working on it.
On it’s way - in the meantime…
http://www.whoateallthepies.tv/newcastle_utd/11377/middlesbrough-fans-boo-top-gear-presenters-for-wearing-newcastle-shirts.html
Class!
Nice words from Mr Sousa.
Just hope we stuff him tomorrow!
very nice sentiments from a seemingly likeable chap!
