By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Manager Steve Bruce has left Newcastle United by mutual consent just 13 days after the Saudi Arabia-backed £305m takeover of the club was completed.
Bruce took charge of his 1,000th match as a manager in Sunday’s 3 – 2 defeat by Tottenham – his only game as Magpies boss under the new owners.
He said: “I am grateful to everyone connected with Newcastle United for the opportunity to manage this unique football club.”
“I would like to thank my coaching team, the players and the support staff in particular for all their hard work. There have been highs and lows, but they have given everything even in difficult moments and should be proud of their efforts.
“This is a club with incredible support, and I hope the new owners can take it forward to where we all want it to be. I wish everyone the very best of luck for the rest of this season and beyond.”
Graeme Jones will lead the team on an interim basis, starting with Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace, and will be supported by the coaching team of Steve Agnew, Stephen Clemence, Ben Dawson and Simon Smith.
Newcastle have begun “the process of recruiting a new head coach” and an appointment will be made in due course.