Newcastle sack McClaren: Can Benitez resurrect the Magpies?

Spanish manager expected to take charge this weekend as Ashley finally loosens control in a bid to save club

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Rafa Benitez is to take over as Newcastle United manager until the end of the season after Steve McClaren was sacked by the club on Friday morning.

McClaren's departure had appeared inevitable since defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday left the Magpies second from bottom of the table, prompting fan groups, unhappy with just six wins in 28 games, to demand his sacking.

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