Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has turned down an approach from Newcastle, according to the Mirror.
The Gers boss is reportedly on a shortlist of managerial candidates to replace Rafa Benitez at St James’ Park.
However, it appears Gerrard has rejected the Magpies’ advances and is keen on remaining with the Scottish club.
Fans on Twitter are delighted by the news:
@ChrisPovey4 what a man
— Ross Metcalfe (@Metcalfe_927) July 8, 2019
He would never go there especially with Ashley at the helm that’s why Rafa left.
— Curtis ?? (@1872Curtis) July 7, 2019
Because Rangers are a bigger club
— Lewis McIntosh ??? (@lewismcintosh04) July 7, 2019
— Adam™????????? (@Adamkean1872) July 7, 2019
There's "poisoned chalices", then there's Mike Ashley?
— Kenny Les (@kdy1303) July 8, 2019
Wise man
— blueshark (@bluesha42921256) July 8, 2019
Career suicide going there. Carry on learning his trade at you win w few cups then years later come home to the reds, am I right sir ?
— Chris Povey (@ChrisPovey4) July 8, 2019
It wouldn’t be much of surprise if Gerrard has indeed rebuffed Newcastle’s interest, considering both his loyalty to Rangers and the lack of ambition that Newcastle have shown in recent years.
While he has the opportunity to win titles and cups with the Light Blues, as well as competing in Europe, he would have no such chance managing the Magpies.
It is likely that Newcastle will now move on to other managerial targets who are more likely to take up the position, leaving Gerrard to focus on his duties at Ibrox.