Gerrard rejects chance to replace Benitez at Newcastle

Steven Gerrard has rejected the chance to replace Rafa Benitez at Newcastle, according to the Mirror.

Magpies owner Mike Ashley was keen for the former Reds skipper to replace the Benitez ahead of the 2019/20 season after the Spaniard’s contract ran out.

Newcastle fans were incensed after Ashley failed to secure the 59-year-old after the former Liverpool manager helped bring much-needed stability to the club.

READ: £10million-rated Reds defender tracked by Premier League sides

NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, ENGLAND – Sunday, October 1, 2017: Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez shouts instructions to his team during the FA Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James’ Park. (Pic by Paul Greenwood/Propaganda)

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And they’re now likely to become even more disgruntled after Gerrard turned down the opportunity, preferring instead to remain with Rangers.

Gerrard is about to start into his second season as manager at Ibrox and is eager to build on the foundations he laid in place in the previous campaign.

The rejection will come as a blow to Ashley, who has also been unable to convince Nice boss Patrick Vieira to come to St James’ Park.

The Frenchman is content at his current club and is not interested in returning to the Premier League to manage Newcastle.

The club are on the verge of a potential takeover by Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan, but progress has been slow so far.

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Source: anfieldhq.com