Graeme Jones ready to take over as Newcastle manager with Steve Bruce sacking imminent
Newcastle United are set to name Graeme Jones as caretaker boss with Steve Bruce set to be relieved of his duties ahead of the club's next match against Tottenham Hotspur.
As revealed by 90min on the day of the takeover, Newcastle's new owners had already decided that manager Bruce would be removed from his post, along with managing director Lee Charnley.
The club's new directors have already discussed possible replacements for Bruce, one of which was former Chelsea and Inter boss Antonio Conte. However, he confirmed through third parties that he would not be ready to take on such a role.
90min understands an initial list of four candidates was drawn up before the takeover was finalised, while numerous new options have been added in the last week.
Meanwhile, the owners are also identifying candidates for the CEO and sporting director roles in the club's soon-to-formed hierarchy.
However it is the manager situation which is most urgent and will need acting on immediately, with Bruce set to be dismissed this week.
Initially the club had envisaged him staying at least for the Tottenham game on Sunday 17 October. But such is the negativity amongst the fans towards Bruce, it has been decided that it would be best for him to step away rather than allow his departure to dominant the game - which the club's owners want to be seen as being a fresh start for the club and its fanbase.
As such, 90min understands that Jones will be handed the reins - initially on a short-term basis.
Jones was brought in by the club's pervious owners to assist Bruce, arriving last year with a big reputation having previously worked with Roberto Martinez at Everton and Belgium. The Gateshead-born coach was also a part of Gareth Southgate's dugout during the Euros.
Since arriving at Newcastle, Jones has proved a popular figure; one reason why he is set to be given the chance to manage the team at least for the clash against Tottenham.
There is little suggestion at this moment that Jones could be appointed permanent manager, but he is popular with the players and sources have told 90min that he could very well be trusted to take the role until the summer, particularly if manages to keep the club well clear of the relegation zone, where they are currently stationed.