Obviously he was speaking in his role as chairman, but for once Shepherd’s feelings as a fan were plain for all to see.
He told the Evening Chronicle: "What has happened since the start of the season is just not on.
"It is not acceptable to the directors and board of Newcastle United or to our supporters and we are not going to put up with it.
"I am talking about everyone here from the manager downwards. The management and players of this football club are given Rolls Royce treatment but we are not getting Rolls Royce performances from them in return.
"The board have given the club some of the best players in the country, and those players top wages, a fantastic stadium and a training complex that is second to none in Europe.
"It's about time the board got something back in return and they started performing on the pitch."
This is the first time Shepherd has had a bad word to say in public about Sir Bobby’s performance as manager, but after praising him highly during the good times as well as backing his judgement in the transfer market he is entitled to criticise when things start to go badly.
However, two days before the transfer window isn’t a good time for Shepherd to start sulking, as it is obvious that only an injection of new blood, coupled with the return of some of our injured stars will turn this season around.