Shola Ameobi names Bobby Robson and Alan Pardew as biggest career influences

Newcastle United legend Shola Ameobi says the late Bobby Robson and Alan Pardew had the greatest influence on his football career.

Ameobi, who came through Newcastle United’s academy, made his first-team debut for the Premier League club against Chelsea in September 2000. He was 18 at the time and Robson was manager.

The former Nigeria international later became an important figure at St James’ Park during Pardew’s time in charge. Ameobi says the two managers helped shape different parts of his development, both as a player and as a leader.

Speaking to The Guardian, Ameobi said Robson’s influence extended beyond football and continued to affect the way he viewed both the game and his relationships with other people.

“Bobby Robson still to this day has such an impact on the way I think about the game, the way I think about the person more than what you’re doing,” he said.

Ameobi also credited Pardew with identifying his leadership qualities and giving him a greater role within the Newcastle squad.

“Pardew used me to channel my leadership within the dressing room and wider squad to help him deal with some of the issues we were going through,” he added.

Ameobi made 398 appearances for Newcastle United in all competitions, scoring 79 goals and providing 43 assists.

Now 45, he continues to contribute to the club.