Former England star Wayne Rooney is understood to be interested in helping Newcastle United on a short-term basis - if Steve Bruce leaves St James’ Park.
Rooney is currently manager of cash-strapped Derby with the Rams in administration and rooted to the bottom of the Championship.
But with uncertainty looming over Derby, he could walk away at any time.
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Rooney has always spoke highly of Newcastle after coming close to signing for the Magpies in 2004.
It is believed that Rooney would look to bring in another Toon favourite with him to Newcastle in Shay Given.
Given worked as his first-team coach with the Rams under Rooney.
The former Republic of Ireland international was in attendance against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday and witnessed the 3-2 defeat.
Before the takeover Given was offered an interview with the Under-23s working under former team-mate Steve Harper.
But Rooney will only step forward to help Newcastle if Bruce goes.
Rooney has always spoken highly of Newcastle and told me in the summer: "Players I knew who played for the club always said it was such a fantastic place to play football because the fans are out of this world.
"Their away support has to be one of the best as well, they create an incredible atmosphere everywhere they go."
Bruce took training today and was not told anything about his future as preparations for the trip to Crystal Palace unfolded.
Newcastle players have a routine day off on Tuesday before work resumes for the clash at Selhurst Park.
Bruce vowed to fight on for his job at the weekend but the club must pay up a seven figure sum in full if they want to release him.
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