Steven Gerrard has reportedly been confirmed as being on the shortlist to be the next Newcastle manager, according to the Chronicle, but it also states an official approach has yet to be made.
Reports in the Daily Mirror over the weekend claimed that the former Liverpool legend has “rebuffed” the Toon’s overtures, in a contrast the the latest claims.
Gerrard would be the type of appointment that would show ambition from Mike Ashley and Lee Charnley, and is also the type of man who could unite fans again, in the same way Kevin Keegan did when he first became manager.
Despite the headline of the Mirror’s article, there is no mention anywhere in the piece of Gerrard rejecting an approach.
That may suggest that the Chronicle’s report could have more substance, and it remains to be seen if the lure of a big Premier League post could tempt Gerrard.
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The article also states that former Everton manager Roberto Martinez is thought to be under consideration, with Charnley speaking to agents in Europe last week.
It also mentions Patrick Vieira, but he seems less likely to be in the frame, having stated his long-term ambitions in Nice.
No appointment imminent and time is running out
There is still no sign of an imminent appointment, which is a worry for Toon fans, with just a short time until the start of the season and the closure of the transfer window.
Most fans will hope for an appointment of someone young and hungry, with the ability to take the club forward, but they worry that Charnley will go for a ‘safe’ manager, who will underwhelm supporters.
Whoever it is, they must surely get it sorted this week, in order to give the new man an opportunity to shape the squad.