Dan Ashworth LEAVES Man Utd after just five months as Newcastle move backfires

Manchester United chief Dan Ashworth has left the Premier League giants after just five months in his sporting director role.

The former Newcastle and England chief departs after a meeting with chief executive Omar Berrada - who also arrived in the summer - at Old Trafford on Saturday night, following the club's 3-2 defeat by Nottingham Forest.

Under-pressure co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe played a key role in the decision, while Ashworth's exit has been billed as 'mutual'. Technical director Jason Wilcox - who previously reported to Ashworth - remain at the club.

A club statement read: "Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement. We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future."

Ashworth was a long-term target for INEOS owner Ratcliffe following his purchase of the Old Trafford club. He eventually signed for United following a lengthy period of talks with his former club Newcastle - with Ashworth being placed on gardening leave at St James' Park.

The Magpies were initially demanding £20m to release Ashworth, but eventually agreed a compensation package worth around £2-£3m.

A statement from both clubs in July read: “ Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United. The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.”

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And while United were delighted to get Ashworth on board in the end, it