Newcastle United news: Elliot injury blow, Benitez backs Academy, McClaren set for quick return?

Could former Newcastle United head coach Steve McClaren be set for a speedy return to management?
Is Steve McClaren set for quick return to management?Is Steve McClaren set for quick return to management?
Is Steve McClaren set for quick return to management?

McClaren was axed as head coach earlier this month, with Rafa Benitez taking charge of Newcastle as they battle against the drop into the Championship.

But the former Middlesbrough and Derby County manager is one of several names linked with the vacant Aston Villa job following the sacking of Remi Garde on Tuesday.

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William Hill, Betfair, Betway, Bet365 and Bet Victor all have McClaren priced up and in the running for the gig at Villa.

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka and former Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio are also in the frame, with David Moyes, Mick McCarthy and Nigel Pearson the early favourites.

For the latest Newcastle United news click here:Meanwhile, Newcastle United have been dealt a major injury blow after Martin O’Neill confirmed Rob Elliot suffered a “serious knee injury” which could end both his Euro 2016 dream and his hopes of helping to keep Newcastle in the Barclays Premier League.

The 29-year-old goalkeeper was hurt as he tried to keep out Miroslav Stoch’s opener in the Republic of Ireland’s 2-2 draw with Slovakia, and now both club and country will anxiously await news of the extent of the problem.

Reports suggest he could be out for up to six months.

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For the latest click here:And finally, new boss Benitez believes the long-term future of the club is bright after praising the Academy.

"The training ground, they have the preparations for the new building so we can improve things but you can do you job still, it is not a problem," said Benitez.

"Why is the club where we are at the moment?

"From outside you will have plenty of reasons why, from inside? You can see that we have to change little things.

"But the positive thing for me is – it’s not difficult."