Newcastle Fire McClaren

Since taking over at St. James’ Park in the summer, the former England manager has won just six of 28 Premier League games in charge of the Magpies, who are languishing in 19th position, just one place off the foot of the table.

The team suffered their third defeat in a role in Saturday’s 3-1 loss to Bournemouth at St James’ Park.

The club statement read: “After the defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday, the club has spent some time considering its position and has today concluded that Steve McClaren’s employment with the club will end with immediate effect.

“We acknowledge that reaching this decision has taken a number of days and that this has caused uncertainty for everyone involved, in particular for Steve and the players, for which we apologise.

“However, we felt that this time was necessary to ensure the right decisions were reached with the best interests of the club at heart.

“Managing director Lee Charnley added: ‘I would like to thank Steve personally for his services to Newcastle United.

“‘He is a man of integrity and class and he has conducted himself with great dignity during this difficult time.

“Steve worked tirelessly to try and bring success to Newcastle United.

“He has the utmost respect of all the players, staff and management and he leaves with our very best wishes and sincere thanks.

“We feel that a change is now needed in order to give the club the best possible chance of securing its Premier League future. A further announcement on a successor to Steve will be made in due course.'”

Former Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid manager, Rafa benitez has been tipped to replace the sacked McClaren.

He is reportedly in the north-east to discuss terms and is believed to be keen to start working with the players as soon as possible. The club hopes him to present him on Saturday.