Newcastle part company with John Carver and Steve Stone

John Carver has left Newcastle as the club prepares to appoint a new head coach, Press Association Sport understands.

The 50-year-old, who took charge of the final 20 games of last season, 19 of them in the Premier League, has parted company with the Magpies along with coach Steve Stone.

Former England boss Steve McClaren is the overwhelming favourite to be appointed as Alan Pardew's permanent successor when he returns from holiday later this week.

Carver will not be the man to benefit from whatever funds owner Mike Ashley releases this summer - and the sportswear tycoon has indicated they will be significant - as the club turn their attention elsewhere.

McClaren was contacted on two separate occasions during Carver's brief reign, but opted to remain at Derby, only to be sacked in the wake of a disappointing conclusion to the Championship promotion campaign.