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McClaren Positive After First Week
Written by Newcastle Utd
Steve McClaren spoke to nufc.co.uk about his first week in charge of the Magpies and what it has entailed
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Steve McClaren insists his arrival is a "fresh start" and a "new beginning" for Newcastle United, after completing a first week as the Magpies' new head coach.
Since being unveiled eight days ago, McClaren has spent the majority of his time at United's Benton-based Training Centre, getting to grips with the job in hand a fortnight before his squad are due to report back for pre-season training.
And the 54-year-old told nufc.co.uk: "It has been a great week, a productive week and everything is very positive.
"It's been a week of getting to know people, getting to know the structure and getting to know the staff.
"I've been sat down with Graham (Carr), Lee (Charnley) and Bob (Moncur), going through what the plans are, what the Club has been doing, the current squad, targets and assessing things.
"We have to build some momentum and then keep that going, and that is what we are trying to do. Behind the scenes we are working very, very hard to make sure we are ready for the new season."
McClaren has been tasked with guiding Newcastle back into the upper reaches of the Barclays Premier League table, while challenging for success in one of the cup competitions.
And after a disappointing term last season, in which the Magpies only avoided relegation on the final day, he has already begun to make his mark.
"In a small way, yes, I'm starting to put my stamp on things," continued the former England, FC Twente and Wolfsburg supremo.
"Without going into too much detail, it's really been about assessing what has been happening at the Club and how we can progress and move things forward.
"I want to send a very clear message to the staff and players that this is a fresh start for everybody, and that we have to all pull together to have an exciting season.
"It's a new beginning for Newcastle United and it's a nice time to assess things before the players return for pre-season training and the hard work begins.
"I can't wait for the start of July. That is what the job is all about - having the players around, getting out on the training pitch and getting down to work, preparing for the new season."