Rafael Benitez admitted he has taken on a “massive” challenge in agreeing to lead Newcastle’s desperate fight for Premier League survival.

New Newcastle head coach Steve McClaren has been charged with the task of trying to win a trophy after finally giving the club the answer they wanted.

Steve McClaren has finally been announced as Newcastle’s new head coach six months after initially being offered the job.

Newcastle boss Alan Pardew could have been handed a five-match stadium ban and a bigger fine for his head-butt on Hull midfielder David Meyler.

SATURDAY

Three people who were arrested after a pitch invasion during a pre-season friendly match have been charged by British police.

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton was this afternoon charged with violent conduct by the Football Association after allegedly punching Blackburn’s Morten Gamst Pedersen.

The Football Association will consider Newcastle’s call for action to be taken against Manchester City midfielder Nigel de Jong over his horror tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa.

The Argentina Football Association have confirmed a star-studded 24-man squad to face the Republic of Ireland in the first ever international match played in Aviva stadium on Wednesday, August 11 (kick off 7.45pm).

North-West-based businessman Geoff Sheard has emerged as a possible buyer for Newcastle United FC.

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton will serve a minimum six-match ban and has been fined £25,000 (€30,962) by the Football Association for his attack on former team-mate Ousmane Dabo last May.

Sellers of England replica football shirts were under pressure today after the national team’s slump to defeat in Russia.

Lord Stevens and the Premier League have made it clear they have no concerns about Graeme Souness’ role in any transfers while he was manager of Newcastle.

NEWCASTLE UNITED have made a formal complaint against Christian Vieri, claiming the Inter Milan star racially abused Lomana LuaLua during their Champions League thriller in Italy.

UEFA have announced they are to investigate an official complaint from Newcastle that Inter Milan striker Christian Vieri made racist comments to Lomana LuaLua during last night’s Champions League match.