NEWCASTE-UPON-TYNE: The latest Newcastle comedy has evolved into farce with the resignation of managing director Derek Llambias after the return to the club of Joe Kinnear as director of football.

Kinnear, 66, has taken charge of all football-related matters in a shock move which had sparked a “welcome back” statement from Llambias earlier this week.
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However fans’ incomprehension at the appointment was exacerbated by a bizarre radio interview on TalkSPORT in which Kinnear talked of the MD as “Lambayzee” and attributed the wrong title to him.
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Llambias, who had worked closely with owner Mike Ashley since the Sports Direct owner bought the club in 2007, did not give any reason for his sudden departure from St James’ Park.
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In a statement he said only: “I have had an incredible journey during my five years at the club, including some challenging times. I will reflect with great fondness on my time in the north east and, in me, Newcastle United have a lifelong supporter.
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“I want to thank the staff for their hard work, our fans for their support of the club, and wish them all well for the future.”
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He did not mention by name Ashley or Kinnear.
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The former Wimbledon boss managed Newcastle during the 2008-09 relegation season but stepped down after a heart attack. He has been brought back by Ashley to run the football side of the club, signing a three-year contract.
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Newcastle manager Alan Pardew is yet to comment.
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