And now Mackem boss Roy Keane says England fans might soon be wishing they had Eriksson back.
Were Newcastle Wrong To Snub Sven?
Eriksson left the top job in English football after the 2006 World Cup, with many fans glad to see the back of him.
But now Steve McClaren's stuttering side are on the brink of faily to qualify for Euro 2008, while Eriksson is masterminding a Manchester City renaissance after taking the job at Eastlands.
Keane: "Their form has been no surprise. You just have to look at Sven's record at club level and international level.
"I knew Sven would do a good job there. His club record is very, very good. His international record isn't bad. If England don't qualify, maybe people will be wanting him back!
"He's a gentleman and I look forward to pitting my wits against him. The experience he has is something I hope to have one day."