Not just David Hopkinson - Newcastle United pushing for second boardroom power play
Newcastle United have appointed one key figure in the boadrooom and another is yet to arrive.
Newcastle United are still expected to appoint Nottingham Forest chief Ross Wilson as sporting director.
It is perhaps the worst-kept secret on Tyneside that Toon chiefs are targeting the Forest supremo. Appointed in 2023, Wilson joined the Tricky Trees after a four-year spell at Rangers regarded as “patchy” by those north of the border.
However, he currently fronts the recruitment at the City Ground which has resulted in Forest returning to Europe. Wilson has shown he can manage upstairs effectively too, with owner Evangelos Marinakis one of the Premier League’s most eccentric characters.
Newcastle United appointed David Hopkinson
Newcastle landed David Hopkinson as the club’s new CEO earlier this month. He arrives following a chaotic window which saw Alexander Isak sold to Liverpool on deadline day.
Hopkinson’s arrival fills the void left by Darren Eales, whose role became limited due to his health. Speaking to the club website last week, the Canadian vowed “the best is yet to come” at St James' Park.
“My first impression is this is one united family, on and off the pitch,” Hopkinson said. “It is the people who make this football club so special and it is a privilege for me and my family to now be a part of it.
“I’m also truly excited about the future that lies ahead of us. My aim is to build on the tremendous work that preceded me with a renewed sense of alignment for everyone, helping us to grow and win together. The best is yet to come.”
Ross Wilson state of play
Newcastle view Wilson as the front-runner to succeed Paul Mitchell as sporting director. There is confidence that a deal can be reached, with the vacant role proving a hindrance in the recent transfer window.
While others, like former chief Dan Ashworth, describe themselves as “the cog of the wheel”, Wilson’s strength is player negotiations. The Chronicle report that Wilson is working with Marinakis to facilitate a diplomatic exit.
Eddie Howe on sporting director
Eddie Howe told reporters last week that he is keen to see the position filled swiftly. He said: "I'm desperate for a sporting director because the way the modern football club works, I think you need that person, the expertise, the person that's going to lead the club in all sorts of different ways, whether that's the academy, transfers.
“It's a never-ending network now that the sporting director has to navigate his way through. So it's an absolutely pivotal position.
“I had a very good relationship with Dan Ashworth, a very good relationship with Richard Hughes at Bournemouth for many years, so we need the position filled but ideally with the right man, the man that can lead the club forward in many different ways and to a very successful era. So no, I'm fully supportive of the position."