Magpies boss no Jewell thief

WIGAN chairman Dave Whelan expects Newcastle counterpart Freddy Shepherd to contact him directly if the St James’ Park club want Paul Jewell as their next manager.

Jewell is reported to be in the running to replace Graeme Souness at Newcastle. But, Whelan said: “If Freddy had any interest in Paul Jewell he would speak to me directly.

“I will back Paul in whatever he chooses to do - and that includes leaving this club for one of the big clubs if that is what he wants.

“Paul is straight down the line with me and if he wanted to move on, I would be the first to know.”