Could one of these ex-NUFC managers be set for a return to the North-East?

Following today's sacking of Middlesbrough manager, Aitor Karanka, three former Newcastle United managers , Alan Pardew, Steve McClaren & Nigel Pearson, are in the running for a return to North-East football - tipped by the bookies to take over at The Riverside. Alan Pardew, who is available following his dismissal at Palace in December, knows the North-East well following his 4 year stint at St.James' Park.

Having been linked with the vacant Norwich City job, it would be expected that the 55 year-old would favour a job in the top flight over a drop down to the Championship. Steve McClaren is jobless once again following another sacking at Derby.

Whilst the former England manager would no doubt love a second spell at Middlesbrough, his recent performances have done anything but suggest he's the man for the job, substantially contributing to the relegation of Newcastle United last term. Last but not least, Nigel Pearson.

While the ex-NUFC first team coach was sacked by Derby early in the season, he has experience of a Premier League dogfight, saving Leicester City from the drop in the 2014/15 season. His proven ability to grind out results when the chips are down go a long way to explain why he is currently the bookies favourite & under serious consideration to take over at relegation threatened Middlesbrough.