Allardyce favourite for Magpies job
Newcastle were back in the market for a manager today as chairman Freddy Shepherd looked for Glenn Roeder’s successor.
Sam Allardyce is the bookmakers’ hot favourite after quitting his job at Bolton, although his compensation package is a consideration.
These are some of the possible contenders.
SAM ALLARDYCE
Available and has previously attracted Shepherd’s attention, although his decision to turn Newcastle down back in 2004 did him few favours. His track record with Bolton makes him an attractive proposition, but his brand of football may not be to the liking of the Toon Army.
MARK HUGHES
The Blackburn boss has steadily established himself a reputation as an astute manager after replacing Graeme Souness at Ewood Park following his departure for Newcastle. However, with Rovers fighting for a place in Europe, he may be difficult to prise away.
ALAN SHEARER
Swift to distance himself from the speculation after Souness was sacked, folk hero Shearer assisted Roeder during his spell as caretaker, but is an unlikely candidate. He is clearly enjoying his media work after ending his distinguished playing career last summer and although he is widely tipped to manage the club one day, his time does not appear to have arrived just yet and in any case he has still to complete his UEFA A Licence coaching qualification.
JUANDE RAMOS
Ramos is currently homing in on his second successive UEFA Cup success after guiding his Sevilla side to victory over Middlesbrough in last season’s final. Ramos’ men are fighting at the top of La Liga, where they lost to the odd goal in five at Real Madrid last night. Though he has spoken of his desire to manage in England, it would be a major surprise if he was to give up everything in Andalusia unless it was for a top-four club.
SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON
Persistent links with the former England boss have been repeatedly denied by Shepherd. The Swede is available and desperate for a return to football, but he must be a rank outsider given the views of the Magpies hierarchy.
