Source: Telegraph
Alan Shearer appointment at Newcastle draws closer
Hughton has been placed in charge of first-team matters by the Newcastle regime as attempts to sell the club proceed and he is optimistic the vacancy in the manager's office could be filled in the near future.
As manager-in-waiting Alan Shearer patiently bides his time, Hughton has suggested that the time is nearing when the former Newcastle skipper can be placed in charge of the newly-relegated Championship club on a long-term basis.
"The feeling is that it's hopefully not too far away," said Hughton. "Until told otherwise I am prepared to hold the fort for as long as it takes.
"But it seems like there are things going on and obviously the sooner that happens, the better it is for all concerned.
"As far as I know, there have been at least two parties that have made an offer and that is all I'm aware of at the moment.
"I could be in charge another two days, another four days or a bit longer. But I would have thought it would be sooner rather than later."
When a new manager is appointed, Newcastle will be able to start recruiting new players because Hughton has not given permission to make any signings at the Tyneside club.
"When somebody is appointed, he will make the decisions for himself," Hughton added.
"That, at the moment, is not my responsibility - my responsibility is solely to look after the team and take charge of them for pre-season games while there is no permanent manager."
Newcastle are currently in Ireland preparing for their first pre-season friendly that will take place on Saturday against Shamrock Rovers when Joey Barton will make his comeback following a three-week suspension by the club following his bust-up with Shearer.
The friendly will take place as doubts remain over the future of the club which was put up for sale by owner Mike Ashley following relegation in May.
Hughton admitted that the uncertain backdrop was making life tough for the Newcastle players who want Shearer to be placed in charge.
"I think the spirit is superb among the squad and the lads have been very professional in the way that they have approached things because it is obviously difficult not knowing where we are going," Hughton said.
