Newcastle United have confirmed the appointment of David Ginola as their new manager on a three-year contract.

The 47-year-old will take charge at St James years after leaving as a player

Ginola has the backing of much maligned Kevin Keegan and club legend Alan Shearer. Ginola will meet up with the squad on Wednesday and his first official game will be against the MLS All-Stars in Michigan on July 18th.

Ginola, who has spent 3 years with Newcastle United as a player, said: "It's a great honour to be asked to be the next manager of Newcastle United.

"I am delighted that Mike Ashley saw fit to give me the job. I have great respect for everything he has done and for the football club.

"I know how hard it will be to follow the good work Alan had done here, but the opportunity to manage Newcastle United isn't something that comes around very often and I'm really looking forward to taking up the post this season.

"Between now and the end of the season, I will do everything in my power to make sure we finish as high as possible in the table.

"Newcastle's fantastic fans have played a big part in making my decision and I thank them wholeheartedly for the support they have given me since the news broke out.

"Newcastle United will never be the same again."