And it’s fair to say it was some ride with the knight of the realm at the helm at St James’s Park.
Champions League football, a trip to Wembley and a run to the UEFA Cup semi-final – Robson’s reign had everything but silverware in it.
Here’s 25 memorable moments in Robson’s time of Tyneside, as remembered by our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy.
1. First game - Newcastle United win 8-0 (Shearer 5)
Alan Shearer salutes a goal during the Newcastle United v Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Carling Premier League match played at St. James's Park, Newcastle, England. Photo: Clive Mason
2. Laurent Robert signs - August 2001
The Frenchman, picked up from PSG for around £9.5million, was a gamechanger for Newcastle United. Photo: Ian Walton
3. Another gamechanger - no, not that one!
Craig Bellamy was added from Coventry City in the summer of 2001 - and he, with Robert, helped take United from lower mid-table to the Champions League. Photo: Jamie McDonald
4. 15 Sep 2001 - First signs of a special season
Rob Lee of Newcastle celebrates scoring during the match between Newcastle United and Manchester United in the FA Barclaycard Premiership at St James Park, Newcastle. NUFC won 4-3. Photo: Stu Forster