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McClaren Vows To Make Fans Proud
Written by Newcastle Utd
Steve McClaren has vowed to 'put a smile' back on the faces of Newcastle United supporters
By Anthony Marshall - Newcastle United Managing Editor
Steve McClaren has vowed to 'put a smile' back on the faces of Newcastle United supporters, after being appointed the Magpies' new head coach.
The 54-year-old former England, Middlesbrough Derby County and FC Twente manager has signed an initial three-year deal at St. James' Park and was unveiled on Tyneside on Wednesday.
McClaren will be tasked with leading United back into the upper regions of the Barclays Premier League after a disappointing 2014/15 campaign in which they only avoided relegation on the final day of the season.
And he is keen to build a side that will be worthy of pulling on the famous black and white striped shirt.
"It's been a long process to get here but it's a Club I have always envied," McClaren told nufcTV in his first interview following his appointment.
"I have lived in the area for 15 years and know everything about Newcastle, so it is a pleasure to be here and finally be the head coach."
"Since coming back I've had brief meetings with Lee (Charnley) and people behind the scenes.
"We know where we are going, we know the objectives and are just looking to really get started as soon as possible.
"The objectives are to get into the top eight and to win something.
"To achieve that you have to have a good attacking team, a good attitude and we are hoping to build that.
"We need to put a smile on the fans' faces and make them proud every Saturday, Tuesday or whenever we play.
"This Club is unique in that every week is like a religion. They are faithful fans who turn up every week expecting.
"We must now sit down, plan properly, recruit well and give them a team to be proud of."
McClaren has had an extensive coaching and managerial career spanning more than 20 years.
Working at both international and club level - with success both at home and abroad - the Magpies' new head coach has worked with some of the very best in the business.
And he is determined to put that vast experience to good use at St. James' Park.
"The breakthrough for me was working at Manchester United and seeing at the top level what it takes to win leagues and trophies.
"I've tried to take that on board but no got away from what I am myself.
"The key piece of advice Sir Alex gave me was to always be yourself. From that you can manage and develop players, and create a winning attitude and environment through your coaching.
"I want to use all that experience to achieve Mike Ashley's objectives of top eight and winning a trophy.
"This is a big Club - a huge Club - with a fantastic fan base which hasn't had success for many years, but deserves it."
To watch Steve McClaren's full interview on nufcTV, click here