Both Everton and Newcastle have denied that Everton manager David Moyes is in the running to become the next manager of Newcastle.

Moyes, who signed a new five-year contract with Everton last year, has been tipped to be the next St James Park boss, Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd his Everton counterpart Bill Kenwright issued a joint statement denying the reports.

“Both football clubs were amazed to see huge speculation this morning regarding the possibility of David Moyes leaving Everton and joining Newcastle United,” the statement said.

Shepherd added: “Bill Kenwright is one of my closest friends in football and I have phoned him this morning to say Newcastle have not approached David Moyes, will not approach David Moyes, and wish him and Everton only the best of success.”

Kenwright added: “I know David Moyes. I know Freddy Shepherd. The story is fabrication and total nonsense – it should be discounted immediately.”

Newcastle are looking for a permanent replacement for Graeme Souness who was sacked last month.

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