'I have' - Manchester United man issues farewell message ahead of Newcastle United switch

As per Mail Sport, Luke Dickson is leaving his role as Lead Academy Analyst at Manchester United to take up a Senior Analyst position at St James’ Park. On LinkedIn, Dickson confirmed last month he was preparing to pursue a new opportunity.

“After 5 unbelievable years at Manchester United, I have decided to leave the club to pursue a new opportunity,” said Dickson.

“It has been an unforgettable period of time, with some of the best experiences of my life whilst getting to work with elite level practitioners on a day-to-day basis. There are too many people to mention but I cannot thank everyone enough.”

Berwick-raised Dickson informed Man United earlier this year that he wanted to leave and join Newcastle but was told he must see out a contractual period of gardening leave. He is due to begin his new role in November.

And there are people inside Newcastle who believe the Red Devils are playing tit-for-tat following the Dan Ashworth saga.

Just 20 months after joining from Brighton & Hove Albion, Ashworth was placed on gardening leave in February this year following an approach from the Red Devils.

It took five months for the two clubs to agree a compensation package. During that period, Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe described the situation as “silly” and absurd.

Ratcliffe said: “A bit silly, personally. I wont get dragged into that. What I do think is completely absurd is suggesting a man who is really good at his job sits in his garden for one and a half years.”