Newcastle United have made some major signings during Dan Ashworth’s time as sporting director.
During his tenure, we saw the club smash their transfer record to bring in Alexander Isak. There were also big money deals for the likes of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, although the latter has proven to be a bit of a disaster given his ban.
Dan Ashworth has overseen some major arrivals at St James’ Park, but he has also had an influence on players not signing for Newcastle United.
That is according to iNews, who have shared details of how Ashworth influenced the club’s recruitment shortly after his arrival from Brighton And Hove Albion.
Dan Ashworth had big plans for Elliot Anderson after his Newcastle arrival
According to iNews, Newcastle were considering signing an attacking midfielder, but were talked out of it by Ashworth. That is because he had earmarked Elliot Anderson for that role.
Ashworth’s advice was clearly taken, as Newcastle are yet to sign a ‘number 10’, despite plenty of rumours over the past couple of years. James Maddison has been the most notable target, but he went to Tottenham last year.
Instead, Newcastle prioritised a move for Sandro Tonali.
As for Ashworth, it was clear that he was creating a path for Anderson to become a first-team regular. The 21-year-old is just that nowadays, and is no longer just viewed as a youngster trying to make the step up.
The midfielder was in and around the team throughout the entire 2022/23 campaign, while this season he was heavily involved until he suffered a back injury.
But Ashworth’s plan for Anderson has worked, and it is one that will save Newcastle United a lot of money – especially if they decide to use him as an attacking midfielder if Eddie Howe ever makes that tactical shift.
While the consensus from fans towards Ashworth has shifted in recent days, his work at creating a path for young players from the academy to the first-team should certainly be applauded.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
