Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley will reportedly take a hands-off approach in the club's search for a new manager, with a decision over the new boss not expected to be made anytime soon.

The Magpies are searching for a successor to Alan Pardew, who left St James' Park to take over at Crystal Palace last week.

Former appointments Joe Kinnear and Dennis Wise have both been linked with short-term stints in charge of Newcastle, although The Chronicle claims that they have both been ruled out of the running.

It is also suggested that Ashley, who is said to be prepared to shut up shop on Tyneside and focus on Rangers, will take a back seat and allow managing director Lee Charnley and chief scout Graham Carr take charge of the search for a new manager.

Frank De Boer is among the favourites to land the vacant Magpies job, although it is understood that no contact has been made by the Premier League outfit at this stage.

John Carver will take charge of United's visit to face Chelsea this weekend.