DEAN Saunders last night quit Blackburn Rovers and agreed to join Graeme Souness at Newcastle United.

The former Welsh international became the latest member of Rovers' backroom staff to follow Souness to the Magpies, following hot on the heels of Alan Murray and Phil Boersma, who left Blackburn earlier in the week.

As I understand it, the 40-year-old was initially hoping to succeed Souness as Rovers' new manager but after meeting with the club's chief executive, John Williams, Saunders realised he was not a realistic contender for the post.

Thus when Souness gave him the chance to join him at St James' Park, the former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker seized it with both hands and he now looks set to be unveiled as United's new first team coach.

Saunders said: "Graeme has taken the opportunity to go to Newcastle and he has asked me to go with him.

"It's a great opportunity for Graeme and myself, so I'm really looking forward to it. It's a great club."

Meanwhile, Wigan boss Paul Jewell has distanced himself from speculation linking him with the managerial vacancy at Ewood Park.

Jewell has emerged as one of several names to be linked with the post following Souness's decision to quit for Newcastle.

But the Latics chief insists that's purely speculation at this moment in time.

"There's nothing to comment on as far as I'm concerned," said Jewell.

"I'm happy at Wigan, the club is moving forward all the time, and until someone tells me differently, I'm the manager here."

Jewell is highly regarded in the game after leading the Latics to the top of the Championship table and he's keen to manage in the Premiership again having guided Bradford City there nearly five years ago.

But he has refused to confirm or deny putting himself forward for the Rovers job.