Steve McClaren has admitted that he feels "very disappointed" to have been sacked as manager of Newcastle United.
The former England boss was dismissed by the club on Friday afternoon after spending only nine months in charge.
McClaren guided the team to just six wins in 28 Premier League games and has departed St James' Park with the club sitting second from bottom in the table, one point adrift of safety.
Former Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez was swiftly appointed as McClaren's replacement on a three-year deal.
Via the League Managers' Association, McClaren released a statement, which read: "I am obviously very disappointed with the decision. I appreciate any frustrations relating to the team's results and the club subsequently finding itself in a battle to avoid relegation. I remain confident, however, that we would have stayed in the Premier League with a view to building for next season.
"Whilst there has been a lot of intense speculation surrounding my position over recent days, my sole priority has been to maintain my professionalism and carry on with my work to best prepare the team. I would like to place on record what a privilege it has been to manage Newcastle United Football Club. It is a great a club - the embodiment of the city, with incredible supporters.
"I'd also like to thank Mike Ashley and the Board for giving me the opportunity to manage the club, and the staff and players for their loyalty and efforts.
"For every supporter of Newcastle United, I genuinely hope the club can produce the results I believe they are capable of, between now and the end of the season, to maintain their Premier League status. Newcastle United is a club that must build for the long term to deliver what the supporters deserve – success and silverware."
According to Sky Sports News, Benitez has a get-out clause in his contract, which could be activated should Newcastle get relegated to the Championship.
