Alan Pardew has predicted that Newcastle will run into serious problems once they lose Dan Ashworth to Manchester United.
It came as a huge but predictable blow to the Magpies last weekend when sporting director Ashworth made his intentions clear to the board. He was immediately put on gardening leave and there is now uncertainty as to when he will be able to begin work at Old Trafford.
Former Newcastle manager Pardew has expressed a valid concern for Newcastle that they face a problem as Ashworth takes their confidential information to another Premier League club.
Just like he did to Brighton when he joined Newcastle? Ah yes.
Ashworth no longer has information to laptops or confidential information, although it would be naïve to suggest he doesn’t have a clear idea of what Newcastle have planned in the summer transfer window.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Pardew said: “It’s a problem for Eddie Howe, they’ve put all these things in place and the ownership at Newcastle they’ve obviously got a plan, a five-year plan or whatever it is. All those secrets Dan knows and he’ll be taking them across the water.”
What exactly do Newcastle achieve by forcing a lengthily spell of gardening leave on Ashworth? It will make other sporting directors think twice before moving to St. James’ Park.
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