Venables eyeing Newcastle post

Terry Venables will this week have further talks with Newcastle chairman Freddie Shepherd over the possibility of replacing Bobby Robson as the Magpies’ manager.

The former England, Tottenham and Barcelona coach has been out of football since a short and unsuccessful spell with Leeds and is looking for a route back into the game.

On Friday, Shepherd denied having met Venables at St James’ Park but it is reported that the pair did get together in London yesterday.

“I feel very happy with the way things went. We had a meeting, a good chat and our conversations will be on-going,” Venables told the News of the World.

“I have an open mind about the situation now. Sir Bobby Robson would be a difficult act to follow – but to manage Newcastle is a great opportunity and I am very pleased to be considered.

“Freddy is a down-to-earth, normal guy and we got on well. There are a few problems that need to be solved but providing I can sort those out I feel very excited about the future.”

Venables is believed to be suffering from a hip injury but is a big admirer of the set-up at St James’ Park and could be tempted into putting off any treatment.

He added: “I was at Barcelona, where the Catalan people are so passionate about their football team. There are very few places where you get that strength of feeling – but Newcastle is one of them.

“At Barcelona you would see everybody in the stadium from kids to old women - it was absolutely amazing. Newcastle has that same atmosphere – you know it means so much to them. It really is a unique place.

“I don’t think there is a club in this country bigger than Newcastle United. People say Manchester United but I think Newcastle could be up there with them - all they have been missing is the success.

“It is a shame because the fans deserve the very best and I know how hard Bobby and other managers have worked trying to give it to them.

“That is why I need time to make this decision. I want to be able to make it happen because I know how important it is to everybody at the club. It is not something I can rush into.”