Steve McClaren will be unveiled as the new head coach of Newcastle United tomorrow and will make signing Charlie Austin his number one priority, according to various news outlets.
The former England boss is expected to recruit Paul Simpson as his number two, with a move for Steve Round looking increasingly unlikely, to replace the recently axed John Carver – who reportedly received £1million in compensation after being axed. Steve Stone also suffered the dreaded axe, but isn’t expected to pocket such a sizeable payment.
Lee Clark is also under serious consideration from those involved with the club, having expressed an interest in returning to St James’ Park just last week.
“It would be my dream to manage the club,” said Clark. “People ask John Carver how he could take the job with the owner not spending, but if you’re a Geordie and you turn down being Newcastle manager, you’ll regret it for life.
“Having a relegation on my CV hurts but it hasn’t knocked my confidence. In hindsight, I regret taking the Blackpool job – but it will help in the future.”
Eric Steele has not yet been contacted by the club, but is first in-line to replace Crystal Palace bound Andy Woodman, should they follow up their interest. It is believed Lee Charnley has elected not to sack Woodman, in hope of the Eagles paying compensation for the goalkeeping coach.
Another member of the coaching staff reportedly on the way out of St James’ Park is fitness coach Dave Billows. Steve Black, a Newcastle-born sports physiologist, is the favourite to replace the former Everton man.
Dave Watson is expected survive and revert back to his coaching role in academy.
Give us your opinion: who would you like to see recruited in place of John Carver, Steve Stone and Dave Billows? Leave a comment below or tweet us @GallowgateGroup.
