Newcastle United appoint successor to club legend with someone Dan Ashworth knows well

Newcastle United have reportedly appointed a successor to long-serving physio Derek Wright.

After initially being appointed by then-Magpies manager Jack Charlton, Wright went on to work under 32 permanent and interim managers during an eventual 38-year service at St James Park.  Wright became a popular figure with players and supporters alike before announcing his retirement from his role last summer.

In an emotional statement released via the club’s official website, he said: “It hasn’t been an easy decision to leave the club that I love, and which has been my life for nearly 40 years. It has been an honour and a privilege to work for Newcastle United Football Club and I would like to thank all of the managers, coaches, players, staff and fans who have made it such a memorable time.

“I am very happy to maintain my connection with the club, but I am looking forward to the future spending and enjoying time with my family. I will continue supporting my club as always watching the team go from strength to strength.”

The Training Ground Guru website have now reported the search for Wright’s successor has come to a close with the appointment of former Charlton Athletic and England Under-21s head physio Danny Murphy.  The same report also confirms current England Under-21 physio Nathan Ring will take over a role as senior physio as part of an enhanced medical department at the club, with the duo well known by Magpies sporting director Dan Ashworth from their time working with England.

Former Liverpool head physio Dave Galley has been working with Newcastle since Wright’s departure and is said to be staying with the club until the end of the year.