Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is to decide between Paul Ince and Gus Poyet as the club's next manager.

The Mirror says both men have been recommended to the underfire St James' Park supremo by director of football Dennis Wise.

Ashley is now set to decide between the two over the next 48 hours, while the Toon Army are preparing to protest over Kevin Keegan's departure.

Blackburn insist Paul Ince is not available, while Poyet pledged his future to Tottenham earlier this week.

Ashley is keen to make a quick appointment to appease the club's fans who are set to stage a serious protest at tomorrow's home game against Hull over the exit of Keegan.