Steve McClaren appointed Newcastle United head coach on a three-year deal

Former England boss was first approached six months ago

Steve McClaren (GETTY IMAGES)

Steve McClaren has finally been announced as Newcastle's new head coach six months after initially being offered the job.

The Magpies, who parted company with John Carver and Steve Stoneon Tuesday, announced on Wednesday evening that the 54-year-old has been installed as Alan Pardew's permanent replacement after signing a three-year contract which could eventually be extended to eight.

Managing director Lee Charnley said: "From my first meeting with Steve, I knew he was the perfect fit for Newcastle United. I am delighted that we have secured the services of one of the best coaches in English football."

McClaren has also been appointed to the club's board of directors along with Charnley, Carr and club ambassador Bob Moncur, with Ashley stepping down along with finance director John Irving, who is leaving the club.

Charnley said: "It was particularly important for us that the head coach also became a board member in order to gain a full understanding and appreciation for the club and its operations as a whole, not just the football side. In Steve, we have an individual that embraced that responsibility."

PA