Bookies Have Ant And Dec At 500/1 To Succeed Rafa Benítez At Newcastle

Two well-known bookmakers have Ant and Dec at 500/1 to become the next Newcastle United boss after the departure of Rafa Benítez.

According to Oddschecker, Paddy Power and Betfair are open to bets on the dynamic TV duo to succeed the 59-year-old Spaniard.

And bookies are also taking bets on Anthony McPartlin, 43, to take up the post without Declan Donnelly, 43, at 500-1.

The Magpies announced on Monday that Benítez would be leaving the club once his contract expires at the end of the month.

"We have worked hard to extend Rafa's contract over a significant period of time, however it has not been -- and will not be -- possible to reach an agreement with Rafa and his representatives," reads the club's statement.

"Rafa's coaching staff, Paco de Míguel Moreno, Antonio Gómez Pérez and Mikel Antia, will also leave the club on 30th June.

"We would like to thank Rafa and his coaching team for their efforts over the last three years and their significant contribution to what has been collectively achieved.

"We would also like to thank our supporters, players and staff for their patience during a period of uncertainty.

"The process to appoint a successor will now begin."

Oddschecker has revealed that Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has emerged as the second favourite to succeed Benítez at the club.

The 41-year-old sits on 7/1 odds to arrive at Newcastle ahead of the new season, with ex-Birmingham City boss Garry Monk remaining the favourite at 11/2.

"Just as news of a potential takeover of Newcastle seemed to be coming to fruition, Toon fans have been dealt a huge blow this morning," Oddschecker spokesman Callum Wilson said.

"With Rafa Benítez gone, bookmakers have leapt to price up his successor -- and the early money is indicating that Bournemouth's Eddie Howe is well in the frame.

"Gary Monk remains favourite and the most backed with almost a third of all bets, however, huge names in the game such as José Mourinho, Arsène Wenger are being backed, with 22 per cent and 11 per cent of all bets respectively."

Newcastle fans are outraged at Benítez leaving the club and have flooded social media with their responses to the announcement.

Who should succeed Benítez at Newcastle?

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