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Report: Roberto Martinez effectively removes himself from Newcastle shortlist

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Owner of Sports Direct and Newcastle United, Mike Ashley arrives at the High Court in central London on July 3, 2017, to defend himself against a l...
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Newcastle United are said to have made contact with Martinez’s intermediaries last week.

Roberto Martinez looks on during the Premier League match between Burnley and Newcastle United at Turf Moor on October 30, 2017 in Burnley, England.

The Newcastle United-linked Roberto Martinez will not leave his position as Belgium manager before next summer’s European Championship, the Times understands.

The Sun reported last week that Newcastle had made contact with Martinez’s intermediaries, prompting the Belgian FA to ‘fear the worst’.

But the Spaniard is said to be focused on winning Euro 2020 and has ‘effectively removed himself’ from the Magpies’ shortlist, according to the Times.

The newspaper also reports that another of Newcastle’s alleged targets, Steven Gerrard, has yet to be approached as the Premier League side seek to replace Rafa Benitez as boss.

Rangers Manager Steven Gerrard looks on during the pre season friendly match between Rangers and Oxford United  at Ibrox Stadium on July 07, 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland.

Should the above prove correct, it would leave Newcastle no closer to finding Benitez’s successor nearly two weeks on – and less than five until the new domestic season.

Martinez previously managed Wigan Athletic and Everton in the English top flight, and it is possible that he will return to club management when his Belgium deal expires, according to the Times.

To whom should Newcastle turn now?