Dan Ashworth set to become Newcastle’s new sporting director

Former Brighton technical director Dan Ashworth is Newcastle’s new sporting director (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Dan Ashworth is to become Newcastle’s new sporting director after the Magpies finally got their man.

Amanda Staveley’s 80 per cent Saudi-backed consortium identified the former Football Association technical director as a key figure in their ambitious plans for the Tyneside club as they completed their takeover at St James’ Park in October last year, but have had to remain patient in their pursuit.