There should be a set of golden rules that all managers are handed whenever they're appointed at even the lowest level jobs, and so they should be so obvious that most wouldn't need to even read them. Don't lose every game, don't headbutt anyone on the touch-line, try not to swear in post-match interviews, and whatever you do, don't assault a linesman, no matter how annoying his decisions. Alan Pardew clearly did not get that particular medal, as he proved on the opening day of the 2012/13 season as Newcastle welcomed Tottenham Hotspur to St. James' Park. Having guided his side to fifth place, and won Manager Of The Year in the process, Pardew's tail was up, but he felt personally wronged by Peter Kirkup when the linesman missed what the manager thought was a blatant throw in. Instead of writing a strongly worded letter to the Referre's association, Pardew lashed out and pushed the referee, earning himself a two game ban and a £20,000 fine. Showing uncharacteristic self-awareness, Pardew later apologised, calling his behaviour "ridiculous".
