Newcastle Manager Has Contract Extended For Season

Newcastle, England (AHN) - Newcastle Manager Joe Kinnear has been given a contract extension to keep him at the helm until the end of the season.

He is pleased about the development, which he learned of earlier this week.

"Ever since I came to Newcastle United I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience," Kinnear said on the club's website. "The players have been great to work with and the fans have made me feel at home since day one.

Kinnear had been filling in on an interim basis, while club owner Mike Ashley will be looking to sell Newcastle's club.

What Kinnear will do is bring them some temporary stability in the management, and allow them to cultivate a single program and make it work for them.

This program starts with keeping talent like Michael Owen, whose contract will be expiring at the end of the season.

Negotiations have not yet begun with him and, should they not reach terms by January, he's free to talk with other clubs.

Ever since taking over the job, Kinnear has won 10 points out of a possible 24. Newcastle is currently 18th out of 20 in the England Premier League.