Kinnear to stay on at St James' until end of season
Joe Kinnear to stay at Newcastle United until the end of the season
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Friday, 28, Nov 2008 10:37
Newcastle United interim manager Joe Kinnear has signed a contract to remain in charge of the club until at least the end of the 2008/09 season.
The 61-year-old was appointed on a month-to-month basis in September following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, who departed St James' Park after an alleged disagreement with owner Mike Ashley over player transfers.
It was thought Kinnear was keen to secure a longer-term deal - despite agreeing to another month-long contract following the goalless draw with Chelsea last week - in order to give him a mandate to negotiate with players and make signings in January.
And after achieving some good results in his time as manager - including the point at Stamford Bridge - Kinnear has now been given the rest of the campaign to mould his side.
He told the club's official website: "Ever since I came to Newcastle United I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
"The players have been great to work with and the fans have made me feel at home since day one.
"We have a big challenge ahead of us for the rest of the season but together I'm confident we will make good progress.
"We have some very good players already at this club and hopefully we can further strengthen the squad in January and I will be working very closely with the directors to try to achieve that."
Managing director Derek Llambias added: "Joe has done an excellent job since coming to the club and everyone is delighted that he has agreed to remain in charge for the rest of the season."
Among Kinnear's first tasks will be to persuade star striker Michael Owen to stay with the club.
The England hopeful's contract expires in the summer of 2009, at which time he would be allowed to leave on a free transfer, and he has so far failed to sign an improved deal.