Newcastle United have announced that sporting director Dan Ashworth has commenced a period of gardening leave, with CEO Darren Eales speaking out on the matter in an official statement.
After it was revealed last night that Ashworth has asked to leave and been placed on gardening leave by the club, Eales has said: “We are naturally disappointed that Dan has chosen to leave, however our exciting journey doesn’t stop and the process to recruit a new sporting director will begin immediately.
“We thank Dan for his efforts at Newcastle United and we wish him and his family well for the future.”
It is a real disappointment that Ashworth has opted to jump ship just 18 months after joining what was supposed to be his long-term project on Tyneside. But, the club must move on and can not continue with those who aren’t committed to the cause.
What happens next on Man Utd’ side is anyone’s guess – will they meet our lofty demands, agree to a compromise or wait for his period of gardening leave (up to January 2026) to pass before bringing him in? Either way, it’s good to see the club clarify the matter and announce that the process will ‘begin immediately’ to find a replacement.
One name which was mentioned in the press that I wouldn’t mind seeing giving the job is Steve Nickson.
Promote from within, that aside he did a great job just after the takeover and before Ashworth arrived and by all accounts was a major player whilst Ashworth was here.
I wouldn’t be disappointed if he got the job I mean he was heading up the transfer panel on probably our best Windows in years with the likes of Tripps, Botman, Bruno and pope.
Yes Botman and Pope signed after Ashworth arrived but regardless what the press are saying he had no hand in either signing both players linked and pursued well before he arrived.
Porkpie(Quote)