Newcastle's 4-Man Head Coach Shortlist - And 4 Names Who Should Still Be In The Frame

1. Aitor Karanka

Age: 41 Nationality: Spanish Clubs Managed: Spain Under-16s (2008-10), Real Madrid (assistant, 2010-13), Middlesbrough (2013-) Managerial Honours: None

Jose Mourinho's assistant at Real Madrid for three years, Aitor Karanka is - according to some reports - the fourth "mystery" candidate for the Magpies head coach role. The 41-year-old Spaniard represented Athletic Bilbao, Real and Colorado Rapids during his playing days - and he was also capped once by his country. He began his coaching career at Spain Under-16s boss in 2010 before Mourinho enticed him back to Madrid. Three years under Mourinho's guidance brought the Spanish title and a Copa del Rey - and then Middlesbrough offered Karanka the opportunity to replace Tony Mowbray in December 2013. Having stabilised the Boro in 2013-14, Karanka then led them to the upper reaches of he Championship the following season. His side narrowly missed out on promotion, finishing in third place - partially as a result of Karanka's bold decision to send his goalkeeper Dimitrios Konstantopoulos forward for a corner in added time with the score 3-3 away at Fulham, only for the Boro to lose. That is the sort of manager Karanka is: he is win at all costs and a risk taker, which may not be what Newcastle are looking for. A 2-0 defeat to Norwich City in the play-off final also proved agonising, but Karanka's style of play and his will to win have made him a fans' favourite on Teesside. His ability to operate on a moderate budget and yet play a high-press game has pricked Newcastle's interest - although he remains an outsider for the role. With his first taste of English football being so successful with Middlesbrough it would certainly be an interesting appointment if Newcastle did approach Karanka, though the fact they would need to pay compensation may scupper any deal. Chances Of Getting The Job: 4/10