Eddie Howe’s friend is a huge admirer of Newcastle United, but does not want SJP job

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United are suddenly looking for a new sporting director, with Dan Ashworth now on gardening leave.

The 52-year-old is going to leave Newcastle and join Manchester United, with the Red Devils poaching a hugely influential figure behind the scenes at St James’ Park.

However, a move will not be cheap. Newcastle are looking for £20million in compensation, otherwise Ashworth will remain on gardening leave until early 2026.

In the meantime, the Magpies will be looking for someone to replace Ashworth. They will be looking to make a long-term appointment, which is what they thought they had when they hired Ashworth.

He was a landmark hire in 2022, and Toon officials will be looking to make a similar splash with they decide who his replacement is going to be.

However, one man who it won’t be is former Liverpool chief Michael Edwards.

Michael Edwards does not want Newcastle United job right now

According to the Chronicle, Michael Edwards is not interested in taking up a role as sporting director – at Newcastle United or anywhere else.

However, they report that Edwards is an admirer of what is going on at St James’ Park and the job that Eddie Howe is doing.

The former Liverpool official was mentioned as a possible replacement for Ashworth, and the fact he is so reputable and has a friendship with Howe made him a tantalising option.

However, he is not interested in that line of work right now, and even turned down a return to Liverpool recently.

Instead, Newcastle will be looking elsewhere, and will be keen to get someone in as soon as possible. Whoever they do go for, the Toon approach will almost certainly be much more respectful than the way Man United have gone about their business.