Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has assembled the strongest scouting team in the club's history.

The Evening Chronicle says United now also have arguably the strongest scouting squad in their history, with men working for them who have had a lifetime in football.

Former United No 2 Bobby Saxton is one, and he has been joined by Adrian Heath and veteran Jackie Chapman, all of whom have a wealth of experience and knowledge.

United's scouts were out in force at the weekend, and Allardyce said today: "They are out watching 24/7, 365 days a year.

"All we are doing now is building up a knowledge and a database of players that has had to start from its infancy.

"It will take a good few years to come up to speed to live with the big boys in the Premier League, but we have started the process."