Pearson exits St James' - reports

Coach Nigel Pearson has left Newcastle, according to reports.

The 44-year-old took over as caretaker manager at St James’ Park for the second time following Sam Allardyce’s departure last month but has now parted company with the Magpies according to Sky Sports News.

He was in charge of the side for the 6-0 defeat of Manchester United and the FA Cup third-round replay win over Stoke, but that was overshadowed by news of Kevin Keegan’s return as manager.

Keegan’s arrival has been followed by Dennis Wise, Tony Jimenez and Jeff Vetere as owner Mike Ashley stamps his authority on the club.

Former Middlesbrough defender Pearson was brought to Newcastle by Glenn Roeder in October 2006 after Kevin Bond’s dismissal and had his first caretaker spell in charge when Roeder resigned last May.

Pearson’s managerial career began at Carlisle and he has since taken coaching roles at Stoke and West Brom.