Newcastle boss Steve Bruce took first team training as normal on Tuesday despite the sack looming over his head, with the club's new Saudi owners preparing for the first game of their tenure against Tottenham on Sunday.
Sportsmail understands the Magpies boss will be relieved of his duties this week, with PIF (Public Investment Fund) aware of the negative impact his presence in the dugout in the opening game, and have lined up a list of high-profile contenders to replace him.
The 60-year-old had been under-fire this season even before the £300million takeover came to light, with Newcastle currently second bottom in the Premier League table following a winless start, but it was business as usual for Bruce at their Benton training as he put the players through their paces.