With an awkward FA Cup tie at Stoke looming, the former Bolton chief could find himself the first Barclays Premier League managerial casualty of 2008.

Such a move would represent the 10th change of manager at St James’ Park during Ferguson’s illustrious 21 years at United.

Yet despite such a history of upheaval, Ferguson would be staggered if Newcastle owner Mike Ashley dumped his old pal.

“It seems to me as soon as Newcastle lose a game, the manager’s career is threatened,” he said.

“I would be astounded if they got rid of Sam. I am convinced that of all the managers they have had, he is capable of doing better than most.

“They have to say to themselves ’Look, we need to give this time’.”

Ferguson still cannot believe the decision to dispense with Sir Bobby Robson’s services in 2004, a move he felt defied all logic.

And, to an extent, the United boss feels a club who have not won a major trophy in over half a century are suffering from unrealistic expectations raised by a five-goal hammering of his own team on Tyneside 11 years ago.

“The worst thing that happened to Newcastle was when they beat us 5-0,” Ferguson added.

“How many years ago was that? But since then, they seem to think they should win every game 5-0.

“I am not sure the Newcastle job is one you would want to take.

“I will certainly never understand why they got rid of Bobby Robson given his experience and enthusiasm, plus the fact he is a Geordie.”

Wigan boss Steve Bruce has also leapt to Allardyce’s defence.

Bruce cannot understand why Newcastle would ditch someone with such an impressive track record quite so quickly.

“Being under pressure is part and parcel of the job now – but it is bordering on the ludicrous now,” he said.

“If you don’t get an instant impact now, you can find yourself out of a job after eight or 10 games. What heart does that give anybody?

“I spoke to Sam yesterday. It was typical of him to ring and congratulate us on our performance.

“As I keep stressing, the job he did at Bolton proves he is a good manager. Who could have done a better job than that? What has changed?”

Bruce feels the trigger-happy clubs are sending out totally the wrong message to aspiring coaches.

“It takes the best part of five years to get your coaching badges to try and manage at the top level,” he said.

“You can do all that hard work and be in a job for three months before you get shown the door.”