STEVE McCLAREN’S chances of being named the next head coach of Newcastle United have significantly strengthened after it emerged Patrick Vieira has been ruled out of the running.

Vieira had emerged as a contender for the role after indicating to sources close to him that the time could be right to make his first step in to frontline management.

But now the chances of the Frenchman taking over at St James’ Park have cooled, paving a clear path for the leading contender McClaren to take over the reins.

Newcastle are ready to inform John Carver that he will not be continuing in the role and former Middlesbrough boss McClaren is closing in.

Mike Ashley, the Newcastle owner, has already tried to lure the ex-England boss to St James’ Park twice this year, but his exit from Derby has opened the door for a clearer route to Tyneside.