Newcastle confirm McClaren departure

Tyne Tees
Steve McClaren
Newcastle United
Sport
Friday 11 March 2016 at 11:49am

A security guard pats Steve McClaren on the shoulder as he leaves Newcastle United's training ground Credit: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Newcastle United have confirmed that Steve McClaren has left the club "with immediate effect".

The announcement comes after days of media speculation surrounding the future of the Head Coach in the wake of last weekend's 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth at St James' Park. The result left the Magpies 19th in the Premier League table.

In a club statement, Managing Director Lee Charnley said:

Former Real Madrid and Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez now is widely expected to be named as McClaren's successor at St James' Park.

Newcastle face surprise Premier League leaders Leicester City in their next match at the King Power Stadium on Monday night.