Newcastle United manager Steve McClaren has written an open letter to the club's supporters.

The new Magpies boss is determined to keep up appearances with the Geordie faithful and is eager to give the fans a greater insight into the happenings around St James' Park.

McClaren mentioned the changes in his backroom staff as he revealed his plans to be transparent to the Newcastle members throughout his debut season in charge.

"I wanted to take the opportunity to write to you directly to thank you for the warm welcome I have received since I arrived at Newcastle United," McClaren wrote.

"Anybody who knows me well has known for a long time that I've wanted to be Head Coach of this great club and now that I'm here, I'm relishing what is ahead.

"My time here so far has been spent meeting a lot of people, both inside the club and outside. At any club, you have to absorb as much information as possible, adapt quickly and then put your own stamp on things. Planning is key.

He added: "The plan we have as a club excites me. It isn't a quick fix, it's not going to happen overnight. It's going to take patience and ups and downs, knocks, highs and lows, but we have got an opportunity over time to really make a statement. I'm looking forward to being with you on the journey.

"It is our intention to update you directly on a regular basis and we hope these direct messages will provide you with a greater insight into the club. "We will be in touch again before our first game at Gateshead next week, shortly before we depart for the US."