However, McEwan today slammed the reports and admitted former Barnsley, Rochdale and Mansfield manager Parkin took pre-season training yesterday.
"I can assure fans that the appointment of an assistant manager has not been put on hold." McEwan told the Evening Post.
Parkin has been a regular face on The Magpies training ground for a few months now, having helped out on a number of occasions since his dismissal from Barnsley early last season.