Eddie Howe admits Newcastle find themselves in a rather ‘unusual situation’ with director Dan Ashworth seemingly keen on defecting to Premier League rivals Manchester United.
By his own admission, the Newcastle manager has little experience in situations such as this. Howe is used to speculation surrounding the future of players, but directors? This, to borrow a phrase from the former Bournemouth boss, is a little ‘different’.
According to The Athletic, Dan Ashworth has informed Newcastle of Manchester United’s interest. The 52-year-old is understood to be keen on a new challenge at Old Trafford too, having been identified as the man capable of driving a revolution in a bold, new Ineos era.
Howe’s comments seem to back up The Athletic’s claims that ‘formal’ talks between Man United and The Magpies are yet to take place. But things are moving quickly, with a resolution to the saga potentially just days away.
Manchester United want Newcastle director
“Nothing (has happened) as far as I’m aware. Obviously, it’s been in the news a lot and usually with these things that means something is going to happen. But as we speak now, we’ve had no contact (from Man United),” Howe tells The Chronicle.
“It’s an unusual situation. I’m used to speculation around players, but this is different. Hopefully there’s a quick resolution.”
He added that Ashworth has not said he wants to stay,
Ashworth only joined Newcastle in February 2022. According to The Guardian, however, he has been impressed by the early moves Ineos have made at Man United, particularly the appointment of former Manchester City and Barcelona chief Omar Berrada as CEO.
Ashworth, who played a key role in Brighton’s emergence as something of a ‘model club’ and also helped lay the foundations for Gareth Southgate’s transformation of the England national team, is seen as one of the best in his role anywhere in European football.
Though it remains to be seen if Ashworth’s role at Old Trafford will encompass recruitment or a more wide-ranging remit.
It appears that United will look to also bring in a specialist transfer expert, with Brighton’s own Sam Jewell an option. Jason Wilcox, currently director of football at Southampton, is another name under consideration.
Ineos headhunt Dan Ashworth
“It’s a difficult one when you’re in that role,” Howe adds. “You need longevity to actually see the fruits of your labour. People have done it best in the Premier League with a period of stability. It takes a long time to get those processes right. Let’s see what happens.
“Football always moves on very quickly, and I say that regarding the manager’s position. Newcastle is a huge football club and will continue to work in a very efficient way. We’ve got some very capable people here, in all departments, so we carry on.
“There has to be a succession plan. For everyone. There is a strategy from the board above.”
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