Mort replaces Shepherd as Newcastle chairman

Freddy Shepherd was replaced as chairman of Newcastle United by his deputy Chris Mort, the Premier League club announced yesterday.

"I am delighted to become chairman of such a fabulous club," Mort was quoted as saying.

"Since arriving at St James' Park I have been hugely encouraged by the warm welcome I have received from fans.

"The strategic review of the club is going well and, with the new season fast approaching, we feel the time is right to make the change."

The move follows sportswear tycoon Mike Ashley's £134 million takeover of the club last month.

Shepherd and his family sold their 28 per cent stake in the club to Ashley who runs Britain's biggest sports retailer, Sports Direct.

The appointment completes the overhaul at the top of the club since the end of last season when Newcastle finished a disappointing 13th in the table.

As well as Ashley becoming Newcastle owner and Mort becoming club chairman, Englishman Sam Allardyce has taken over as manager following the departure of Glenn Roeder.