Newcastle United are reportedly keen on utilising Jack Ross to recruit more frequently from Scotland in the future.
Having joined the Magpies following years as a manager at clubs like Hibernian, Dundee United and bitter rivals Sunderland, Jack Ross has now established himself as one of the club’s top chiefs.
Ross joined Newcastle United as head of coaching development in 2023 before moving into the role of head of football strategy in July.
Ross worked closely with Paul Mitchell at Newcastle. The former sporting director liaised with him over who should be loaned out from Newcastle’s academy during the summer transfer window.
With Ross’ new role seeing him work closely with a new sporting director when they are appointed, Newcastle are set to use his experience to attract new talent from elsewhere.
- Newcastle United academy: Stadium, training ground, managers and Steve Harper’s role
Newcastle United set for major Scotland scouting mission
It was reported earlier this year that Newcastle were looking to recruit more extensively from Ireland following the signings of Kyle Fitzgerald and Alex Murphy, who have made positive impressions on Tyneside.
Now, according to the Chronicle, the Magpies are keen to send more scouts into Scotland to find hidden gems.
The report states that Scotland is a catchment area which was ‘previously overlooked’ during Mike Ashley’s reign as owner, but the search has stepped up following the takeover in 2021.
Newcastle’s recruitment drive from Scotland was evident during the summer transfer window, where young stars Oliver Goodbrand and Alfie Hutchison joined their academy from Rangers.
The report adds that Ross has an extensive list of contacts following his managerial spells in Scotland.
- READ MORE – Emil Krafth shares what Alexander Isak was like behind the scenes during Newcastle United transfer saga
Jack Ross could be joined by a fellow Scottish chief at Newcastle United
Ross has done a great job since joining Newcastle, using his experience to help the club update their talent strategy and build partnerships with other clubs, whether in England, Scotland or elsewhere in Europe.
Newcastle are still in a big transition period, with a replacement for Mitchell yet to be found. However, David Hopkinson was appointed Newcastle’s CEO, so the focus is now on appointing a new sporting director.
Reports have heavily suggested that Nottingham Forest chief Ross Wilson will join Newcastle following a series of interviews, but an announcement is yet to be made on a final decision from either club.
Wilson made some exceptional signings at Forest, including Elliot Anderson, who made his England debut on Saturday evening.
Ross will work closely with Wilson, who has experience in Scotland after a spell as Rangers’ sporting director.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
