Newcastle United have confirmed that manager Steve Bruce has left his position at the club by mutual consent.
Bruce’s position has been increasingly uncertain following the club’s Saudi-backed takeover earlier this month, with the manager having been expected to leave as the new billionaire ownership introduces major change at St James’ Park.
The 60-year-old has been an unpopular figure amongst the supporters and leaves with the Magpies 19th in the division, last weekend’s defeat to Tottenham extending the club’s winless run to eight games since the start of the Premier League campaign.
Graeme Jones will lead the side on an interim basis and will take charge of this weekend’s clash against Crystal Palace as the board step-up their efforts to find a successor.
Bruce – who guided Newcastle to 13th and 12th place finishes in his two seasons in charge – has made a statement wishing the club success in the future.
“I am grateful to everyone connected with Newcastle United for the opportunity to manage this unique football club,” Bruce said.
“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.”
Several names have been linked with the position in recent weeks, including the likes of Paulo Fonseca, Eddie Howe, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, while Brendan Rodgers is believed to not be interested in the role.
