This is why Newcastle United may have to wait until November for key appointment

Ashworth left Brighton and Hove Albion, where he had been technical director, early last month. The 51-year-old is understood to have been offered a similar position at Newcastle – and he has since been on gardening leave.

There have been talks between the two clubs over hastening his appointment. However, the Daily Mail report that Ashworth has a nine-month notice period stipulated in his Brighton contract, and United would have to pay hefty compensation to appoint him sooner.

Speaking last month, United head coach Eddie Howe said: “I’ve been used to working with a sporting director at Bournemouth, so I would encourage that.

“I believe I can work under any framework, really. I would embrace that. I’m a firm believer that the stronger your team around you, the better you can deliver for the players. I would welcome any decision the owners make.”