Newcastle Town announce change of manager

Baker replaces Paul Moore, who was asked to stand down with immediate effect following the club's 3-0 Boxing Day defeat to Pitching In NPL West Division leaders Leek, ending his eight-month tenure.

That was Newcastle's fourth successive defeat without scoring a goal. Since the start of November, they have picked up just two wins from nine matches in all competitions.

Such form has left them 17th in the NPL West Division, three points above the relegation zone.

The club have now turned to Baker, who left Leek back in August after over six years in charge.

That was his second stint at the helm of Leek, having previously managed there between 1986-94.

In more recent times, Baker led Leek to a play-off final in 2018/19 and took them top of the table in 2019/20 and 2020/21, with both seasons curtailed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

They finished second in the NPL West Division last season - 14 points behind champions Macclesfield - before losing out to Runcorn Linnets in the play-offs.

A Newcastle Town statement said: "We are very happy to announce the appointment of Neil Baker as the clubs new men's first team manager.

"Previous to his time at Leek, Neil spent 23 distinguished years at Crewe Alexandra and is known as a superb coach who can get the best out of his players.

"We all welcome Neil, and wish him a long and successful reign at the Castle."

Photo credit: Newcastle Town