Ferguson believes the intense pressure on Sam Allardyce after only six months in charge is ridiculous.

And he says if Toon get rid of Big Sam they would lose their best chance of success in decades.

Fergie said: "It seems to me every time Newcastle lose a game the manager is under pressure.

"How many managers have they had in my time at United? At least 10. I'm not so sure it's a job you want.

"I'd be astounded if they got rid of Sam. I am convinced that of all the managers they've had, he's capable of doing better than most of them."

Fergie added that beating his side 5-0 back in October 1996 did Newcastle no favours in the long run.

That incredible game at St James' Park seemed to set the standard for many of the Geordie faithful.

Fergie said: "The thing with Newcastle fans is they think they should be winning games 5-0.

"The worst thing that happened was beating us 5-0 because after that they expected to do it every time - and that was 11 years ago!"