That team was from the Bobby Robson era, a legendary manager who was sacked for his efforts and replaced by Souness.
But if you look at it against say: Given, Beye, Taylor, Colo, Enrique, Duff, Butt, Barton, Guiterrez, Owen & Martins how many on here would pick the current team to win?
I don't really understand what is your point? Robson built a very good side I agree. He was sacked by Freddie Shepherd after consistently finishing in Europe. Are you saying Freddie Shepherd took us backwards by sacking SBR and bringing in Souness?
I think a blind man on a galloping horse could see that we've gone back since Sir Bobby.