The former Tottenham full-back launched a search last week after assistant Colin Calderwood returned to management in his own right at Scottish Premier League side Hibernian. Hughton has been linked with a series of targets, including former Magpies coach Steve Clarke, but insists he is yet to offer the post to anyone. He said: "It's something I have wanted to take some time over. I don't expect to take too long over it, but I haven't named one yet. "I have a few in mind, but certainly no decisions have been made yet." Asked specifically about the speculation surrounding Clarke, he said: "Probably the reason it has been mentioned is because he is a very, very good coach who is available and he has a history at this club. "But he is one of a few very good coaches who I would have thought about, but I categorically haven't made any decisions yet. "I have given myself that little bit of time to make what I feel will be the best decision."
