Contenders gallery as former Newcastle United and Leeds United managers in contention for Aston Villa role

Aston Villa will hope to have a new manager in place by the time they face Newcastle United next weekend.

Twelve months ago there was speculation then-Rangers manager Steven Gerrard was in line to replace Steve Bruce at St James Park - but it was Villa that handed the Liverpool legend his first opportunity to manage in the Premier League just under a month later. After preserving his side’s Premier League status during his first six months in charge at Villa Park, there were high hopes Gerrard could lead the club to a much-improved performance this season.

Despite spending big on the likes of Philippe Coutinho and former Magpies transfer target Diego Carlos, only goal difference is keeping Villa outside of the relegation zone after winning just two of their opening 11 games of the season. Thursday night’s 3-0 defeat at Fulham proved to be the final straw and Gerrard’s reign was quickly brought to an end less than two hours after the full-time whistle at Craven Cottage.

A statement released on the club website read: “Aston Villa Football Club can confirm that Head Coach Steven Gerrard has left the club with immediate effect. A club spokesman said: “We would like to thank Steven for his hard work and commitment and wish him well for the future.”

A number of possible successors have already been mentioned across the media with some familar faces linked with the vacancy. NewcastleWorld takes a look at the candidates as one former Magpies boss is named among the frontrunners for the role.