Neil Redfearn is taking charge of preseason training at Newcastle United.

Redfearn moved to Newcastle following an ill-fated stint on Merseyside — he resigned last September — and has had this role thrust upon him after the acrimonious exit of Rafa Benitez.

Fellow academy coach Ben Dawson will act as his No 2 for the time being when the Newcastle players return on Thursday, says the Daily Mail.

It comes after fan favourite Benitez departed the club last week after a power struggle with owner Mike Ashley took its toll, with the manager claiming the club's top brass didn't share his ambition.

Benitez on Wednesday was appointed manager of Chinese Super League outfit Dalian Yifang.