David Moyes and Rafa Benitez in line to replace Alan Pardew at Newcastle

PARD TIME: Yesterday's 4-0 defeat to Southampton has piled yet more pressure on beleaguered

Pardew is under increasing pressure from fans disgruntled with the Toon's performances and owner Mike Ashley is weighing up whether a change of manager is necessary.

The billionaire Sports Direct owner is still hunting buyers for the club, although on Friday a statement issued by the Premier League insisted Ashley will not sell the club "at least until the end of next season".

Ashley is also eager to increase his stake in Scottish club Rangers.

But if he decides Pardew needs to go, Ashley will have a fight on his hands to land Benitez (left) or Moyes (right) as West Ham are also interested.

Benitez is keen on a return to England in order to be closer to his family, while Moyes wants a challenge to help him redeem his reputation following his time at Manchester United.