Newcastle United news: Bookies slash Benitez odds, McClaren back at training ground

The club is assessing potential successors, including Rafa Benitez, to head coach McClaren.

Benitez, sacked at Real Madrid in January, would consider joining Newcastle.

But the 55-year-old would seek assurances from United before agreeing to succeed McClaren.

Bookmakers today slashed the odds on Benitez becoming the club's next manager.

William Hill have cut the odds on Rafa Benitez being named as the next Newcastle manager from 5/1 to 2/1 following a surge of betting.

Benitez is the second favourite behind David Moyes, who is priced at 11/10.

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has reacted to speculation linking him with the United job.

Meanwhile, McClaren was back at Newcastle's Benton HQ ground today.

The 54-year-old was pictured arriving at 8.30am this morning to prepare for this morning's training session.

Writer Miles Starforth has given his view on McClaren's position at St James's Park.