Steve Howey has rubbished claims that John Terry could take charge of Newcastle United if Steve Bruce is axed early in the season.

Bruce has been the target of criticism from the Toon Army since he was appointed as Rafa Benitez's successor in the summer of 2019.

The Magpies opened their Premier League campaign by welcoming more than 50,000 supporters back to St James' Park, but they were consigned to a 4-2 defeat by West Ham United thanks to a second half fightback.

Former West Ham United and Scotland striker Frank McAvennie has claimed that Newcastle could turn to Chelsea legend Terry if the Tyneside club do not improve quickly.

Terry, 40, has yet to move into a managerial role since hanging up his boots, but he is available after leaving his role as Dean Smith's assistant head coach during the close season.

The former central defender has made no secret of the fact he now wants to secure a top job, but ex-Newcastle man Howey believes the Magpies should look elsewhere if Bruce is given the boot.

Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, Howey said: "John Terry worked very closely with Dean Smith at Aston Villa and I think he would have learnt a lot.

"For me, the Newcastle job is a big one to take on as your first job. I think they'd be looking to get an experienced manager in.

"I think, for John Terry's first job, Newcastle would be a big ask."