Former England footballer Gary Lineker has described Newcastle United's board as "shambolic" following the sacking of manager Steve McClaren on Friday.

The Magpies released a statement this afternoon confirming that McClaren has been relieved of his duties following just a nine-month spell in charge at St James' Park.

It was widely reported throughout the week that former Liverpool and Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has already held advanced talks with the Newcastle board about replacing McClaren.

After McClaren's dismissal was announced, Lineker tweeted: "Newcastle have finally put Steve McClaren out of his misery. The running of that great football club is beyond shambolic."

Newcastle are second from bottom in the Premier League table, one point from safety after winning just six of their 28 games.