Dan Ashworth and Eddie Howe will not be working together for much longer (Picture: Getty Images)
Eddie Howe admits it is an ‘unusual situation’ surrounding Dan Ashworth’s likely departure for Manchester United, but is not concerned over how Newcastle will move on after he leaves.
Manchester United are working on bringing the sporting director from St James’ Park to Old Trafford, with a deal likely to be agreed between the clubs after Ashworth accepted an offer.
The 52-year-old has been at Newcastle since February 2022 and will lead a revamped off-field team with the Red Devils under the new ownership structure.
Howe could not confirm any update on the sporting director’s imminent exit, but downplayed the significance of it, with Ashworth only being at the club for two years.
‘Obviously it’s been in the news a lot and usually with these things that means something’s going to happen. But as we speak now we’ve had no contact from anyone,’ Howe told a press conference on Friday.
‘It’s quite an unusual situation. Usually there’s transfer speculation on players. This is very different. Of course whatever happens we want a quick resolution.
‘I think it’s a difficult one because when you’re in that role I think you need longevity to actually see the fruits of your labour. It’s a long-term position.
Ashworth with Academy Director Steve Harper and Eddie Howe on the training pitch (Picture: Getty Images)
‘I think the people that have done it best in the Premier League have had a period of real stability. Change takes a long time in any football club to get those processes exactly how you want them to be. Dan’s had a relatively short time here, but let’s see what happens, as I sit here now nothing’s happened.’
On the club’s plan for life after Ashworth, Howe said: ‘Football always moves on very quickly and I say that regarding the manager’s position. Newcastle is a huge football club and will continue to work in a very efficient way. We’ve got some very capable people here, in all departments, so we carry on.
‘There has to be a succession plan. For everyone. There is a strategy from the board above.’
MORE : Man Utd hatch plan to avoid paying significant compensation to Newcastle for Dan Ashworth
MORE : Erik ten Hag stresses importance of sporting director appointment amid Dan Ashworth rumours
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Manchester United news, exclusives and analysis
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.