Eddie Howe to Manchester United was 'teased' before brutal Dan Ashworth sacking

The former Newcastle United sporting director has arguably been the most bizarre development since Ratcliffe bought a minority stake in Manchester United. Toon chiefs played hardball during a five-month legal wrangle which, at one point, looked destined for arbitration.

Newcastle placed the 53-year-old on gardening leave as the two clubs thrashed out a compensation package. With the Magpies fretting about a potential PSR breach, a deal was agreed before the June 30 deadline.

Man United embarked on a victory parade once Ashworth arrived, believing him to be the messiah who could spearhead the Ineos revolution. However, just 159 days later, the ex-Toon chief was gone.

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The Red Devils parted company with Ashworth following a dismal summer transfer window. ESPN claimed Ratcliffe - given sporting control by the Glazers - and Ashworth endured a hostile relationship and his credentials were not up to the job.

Annual accounts released by Man United in midweek showed the Ashworth fiasco cost the club £4.1million. One key issue of contention was Erik ten Hag’s sacking just months after he penned a contract extension.

The Daily Mail reported in December that Ashworth wanted a proven Premier League manager to replace the Dutchman. Howe and Thomas Frank were his preferred options but Old Trafford chiefs appointed Amorim.

Just four wins, two draws and eight losses in the Premier League have hardly justified that decision. Newcastle moved on from Ashworth swiftly by appointing former Monaco supremo Paul Mitchell as sporting director.