Newcastle till I die: Abhisit

After watching his favourite football club, Newcastle United, lose their last Premier League game and get relegated in the process, Abhisit went to bed Sunday night with hope in his heart. And he wore a Newcastle necktie to work Monday morning to display his unwavering support for the club.

"Newcastle will be promoted back to the Premier League next year," Abhisit told reporters Monday morning. "I'm still having strong faith in the club."

Abhisit confirmed reports that he had intended to call Newcastle manager Alan Shearer. He hasn't made such a call, though, probably because of Sunday's heartbreaking result or because of uncertainties surrounding Shearer's future.

Newcastle United were beaten away at Aston Villa Sunday and subsequently relegated along with Middlesbrough and West Bromwich Albion.

"I watched the game at home last night. I'm still fine," Abhisit said. Asked what he thought went wrong with his team, the prime minister said frequent changes of manager might lead to problems regarding game plans and continuity.

"At least the team have done well in their spirited fight in the Premier League over the years," he said.

Meanwhile, Manchester  City, which were owned briefly by his political rival, Thaksin Shinawatra, ended their League campaign right in the middle of the 20-team table, after beating Bolton Wanderers 1-0 on Sunday.