Pardew expected to be unveiled Toon boss

ALAN PARDEW is expected to be confirmed as the new Newcastle manager today.

The Magpies were yesterday remaining tight-lipped over the identity of their primary target as talks progressed, but it is understood the 49-year-old is the clear front-runner in a small field which has reduced in size since the search for Chris Hughton’s replacement began in earnest.

Club owner Mike Ashley and managing director Derek Llambias are close to concluding a deal and are confident the new man will be in place ahead of Saturday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool at St James’ Park.