Sam Allardyce has revealed he turned down the chance to succeed Rafael Benitez as Newcastle United manager.
Newcastle are looking for a replacement for the Spaniard following his departure at the end of his contract, with the 59-year-old joining Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang after three years in the North East.
Former England boss Allardyce, who previously managed Newcastle from 2007 until 2008, has claimed he was under consideration to replace Benitez but has rejected the chance to return to St James’ Park.
“I was very flattered that I was considered but it’s that thing… ‘don’t go back’,” Allardyce said on talkSPORT.
“It never got to the type of talks people are suggesting but it wasn’t for me. I politely said ‘no’.
“I never got to talk to Mike [Ashley]. My agent contacted me, I had a think about it and a quick look at the situation and thanked them very much.
“It’s not for me. Maybe if it was the first time around I would have jumped at it. I appreciate the offer but I was surprised, I’ve not worked for a full season.”
“It wasn’t something I thought about for too long. I thought it’d be better to make a quick decision for everyone. We’re in pre-season now and they’re back in training.”
See also – The five favourites to become Newcastle’s next manager
