Rivals hit out at Newcastle rumours

14 April 2012

Newcastle were facing a growing backlash from their Premiership rivals today as they searched for a successor to sacked boss Sir Bobby Robson.

Birmingham chairman David Gold and Bolton chief Phil Gartside were among those who have hit out after their managers were linked with the vacant post at St James' Park.

Newcastle striker Alan Shearer remains favourite to take over from Robson, although the club are making no comment.

Steve Bruce and Sam Allardyce, as well as Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren and Charlton's Alan Curbishley, have all been mentioned as possible replacements.

But Gartside says Allardyce is going nowhere, while Gold insists Newcastle face a fight to prize Bruce away. Gold said: "We will do everything in our power to keep Steve. He has been successful here and if he hadn't, he would not be linked to other jobs. There has been no approach from Newcastle, it is purely speculation.

"We are growing, we have an ambitious board and fantastic support. It could be argued - why would you want to leave?"

McClaren has also ruled himself out of the running, saying: "Naturally I'm flattered with their interest but we are building something exciting at Middlesbrough and I'm committed to seeing that through."

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd says he will not be rushed into a decision and admits sacking Robson was one of the toughest things he has had to do.

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