‘He would be’ - Dan Ashworth replacement given seal of approval for Newcastle United role
Newcastle United have Dougie Freedman on their radar to replace Manchester United-bound Dan Ashworth
Former Everton and Aston Villa CEO Keith Wyness believes Dougie Freedman will bring “competence” to Newcastle United.
Toon chiefs have identified the Crystal Palace chief as one of the front-runners to replace Dan Ashworth as sporting director. Newcastle have wasted no time in finding the 53-year-old’s successor since placing him on gardening leave.
A bold statement when announcing Ashworth’s exit told supporters they were already chasing a new face for the hot seat. As it stands, Manchester United are yet to reach an agreement for the ex-Brighton man - with Newcastle maintaining their £20million stance.
Wyness was once a Premier League chief and has backed Freedman to make an impact at St James’ Park. A compensation package is not understood to be an obstacle for the man who has played, managed and worked as sporting director for Palace.
“We’re a long way from fans chanting the name of a sporting director,” Wyness told Football Insider. “As long as they feel he is a competent person with a great network, fans are happy.
“That is what Dougie Freedman would bring. He’s already got a good reputation in the game. He’s worked on some great issues and with lower budgets as well as higher budgets.
“He would be a good selection for the job, so good luck to him. A football director’s work is not usually in full view of the fans until transfers are made. The only real credit comes when trophies are won and then the dividends are paid out.”