THERE have been dozens of expressions of interest in the vacant managerial position at Darlington, but some have caused eyebrows to raise more than others.

Perhaps the most intriguing interest came from former Middlesbrough striker Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink, who is understood to have sounded out the possibility of being considered for the role.

Hasselbaink's last employment came as part of Steve McClaren's coaching team at Nottingham Forest, but the Dutchman left the City Ground when the former England and Boro boss was dismissed.

He is keen to get back into football as quickly as possible, but will not be offered a role at The Northern Echo Arena.

Similarly, ex-Newcastle centre-half Steve Howey is not in the running despite having put himself forward for the job.

MORE than 5,000 supporters turned out at St James' Park yesterday to watch an open training session with Newcastle United's first-team squad.

The session, which was scheduled to coincide with the half-term holidays, was regarded by all as a huge success.

It came just days after Newcastle won more plaudits for launching a half-price season ticket offer that enabled existing season-ticket holders to take advantage of a cut-price deal.

Whisper it, but after a succession of disastrous moves that infuriated Magpies fans, might Messrs Ashley and Llambias finally be learning how to generate a bit of positive PR?

AFTER making a significant statement with the recruitment of Lee Westwood as his attached tour professional earlier this year, North-East entrepreneur Graham Wylie has taken another major step towards establishing his Close House complex as one of the leading golf courses in the country.

Wylie has appointed Gleneagles head golf professional and head of golf operations Russell Smith to the role of director of golf at Close House.

Smith will take up his new post later this year, and Wylie appears determined to make Close House a rival for Rockliffe Hall in the race to bring a leading European Tour event back to the North-East.