Soccer: Newcastle lose manager

Newcastle United manager Sam Allardyce has left the club "by mutual agreement" after just eight months in charge.

"A new manager has not yet been appointed at Newcastle United," Newcastle said in a statement on its website. "We will make a further announcement on the managerial position when appropriate.

"The decision has been reached by mutual agreement."

First team coach Nigel Pearson will lead the team for Saturday's Premier League game at Manchester United.

Newcastle's 0-0 draw at League Championship club Stoke on Sunday stretched Newcastle's winless streak to five matches.

Allardyce had been appointed to help lift the club and challenge for titles, using his no-nonsense approach that worked so well during his previous stint at Bolton.

However United is 11th in the 20-team Premier League with 26 points, 24 less than leader Arsenal.

Allardyce won just eight of his 24 matches at Newcastle.