David Moyes 'favourite to replace Alan Pardew at Newcastle United'

David Moyes has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to replace Alan Pardew as Newcastle United manager, if owner Mike Ashley decides to sack his current coach.

On Saturday morning, Ashley was quoted by The Independent as saying that Pardew would lose his job if his team lost at Stoke City on Monday night, although Ashley has since labelled those quotes as a "joke".

However, The People claims that the Magpies have gone as far as to earmark the former Manchester United and Everton manager to take over at St James' Park, should Pardew go.

It is thought that Newcastle's hierarchy are keen to see the club avoid a relegation battle this season and Moyes is also said to view the job on Tyneside as one which would suit him.

However, the Scottish coach is also believed to be willing to consider the chance to manage a European club in his next role.