Roeder cleared to be Newcastle boss

Newcastle have been granted dispensation by the Premier League to appoint Glenn Roeder as their new manager.

The Magpies were told by the League last week that because Roeder has yet to obtain the required FIFA Pro-Licence to manage in the Premiership, they would need permission from other top-flight clubs if they wanted to consider him as a candidate for the vacant post.

That has duly been granted and will be ratified at the Premier League's AGM at the beginning of June.

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd told www.nufc.co.uk: "Should we wish to appoint Glenn Roeder as our next manager it is nice to know we have the support of fellow clubs, and I'd like to thank them and the Premier League for their understanding.

"Contrary to inaccurate newspaper reports that appeared last week saying the situation was in danger of turning into a farce, or was heading for disarray, the whole process has been handled very professionally - and amicably - from start to finish."

Roeder, 50, guided his patched-up side into the Intertoto Cup with a final-day victory over champions Chelsea on Sunday.

The former Magpies defender, who has been caretaker manager since the departure of the Graeme Souness, has proved he has what it takes to fill the role after taking 32 points from the 15 league games for which he was in charge.

"We have enjoyed a positive end to the season and the staff, players and fans of Newcastle United can all look forward to the prospect of European football again next season.

"We also have Alan Shearer's big testimonial game to look forward to on Thursday night before those players not involved with the World Cup can go away for the summer and recharge their batteries.

"We will make an announcement on the managerial position at Newcastle United for next season at a press conference on Monday."