Director close to Eddie Howe announces exit plan after Newcastle and Liverpool links

Bournemouth's technical director Richard Hughes has confirmed he will be leaving his position with the Cherries at the end of the 2023/24 season.

The 44-year-old formed a close bond with Eddie Howe - both as a player and member of staff - during his time at the Vitality and has been linked with the vacant sporting director role at St James' Park following Dan Ashworth's exit.

Liverpool have also been tipped to make a summer move for the Scot, with Fabrizio Romano revealing that he's on their list of options after confirming that this will be his last season with the South Coast club.

Newcastle's search to replace Ashworth is believed to be in the early stages. Head of recruitment Steve Nickson has been tipped to step in, but Hughes' sudden availability comes at an intriguing time given Ashworth's departure and his history with Howe.

Speaking about his end-of-season departure, he said: “Working for AFC Bournemouth has always been a source of great joy and pride for me. Initially representing the club as a player and then subsequently in a football leadership role, I count every moment I’ve spent here as a blessing.

“As technical director, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented and dedicated individuals the game can offer. It’s been ten challenging, enjoyable and rewarding years in this post.

“The journey we have been on, as a club, is nothing short of remarkable. Where we are currently, on and off the pitch, assures me the future is bright.

“In Bill Foley, AFCB has an owner who is as ambitious as he is smart and committed. In Neill Blake, the club has a top-tier CEO who has always made decisions which place the best interests of the club and its supporters before anything else.

“On the technical side, we have a group of players and coaching setup who complement each other perfectly. Andoni is one of Europe’s most exciting managerial prospects and the playing squad is arguably the best we’ve ever had. I’ve zero doubt that match days will continue to be exciting and entertaining for our fans.

“The club requires a healthy lead up time to plan for the summer and beyond so this is the right time to announce that I will be leaving at the end of the season.

“I look forward to the day I return as a supporter in the company of my wife and our five children who are the biggest of Cherries fans, but before then an important end to this season awaits and I am looking forward to a strong finish. Up the Cherries.”