I worked with Dan Ashworth - this is how he will run Manchester United

Dan Ashworth looks set to become the latest addition to the Sir Jim Ratcliffe revival train at Manchester United with Manchester City CEO Omar Berrada soon to step on board from the Etihad Stadium.

Ashworth is familiar with INEOS sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford having worked together at the FA and invited him to speak to the Newcastle squad 18 months ago. He is now eager to join forces once again with the Magpies chief keen on a move to Old Trafford.

The 52-year-old has built up a reputation that goes before him having helped to orchestrate Brighton & Hove Albion’s rise before being scouted to St James’ Park two years ago. He played a major role in ensuring the Tyneside club did not breach Premier League finance rules last month.

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Ratcliffe has identified Ashworth as his top target for an inaugural sporting director role ahead of an important maiden summer transfer window. Ashworth is said to take a holistic approach to running a football club and has earned appraisals from former managers who worked under him.

Graham Potter closely dovetailed with Ashworth during his successful spell in Brighton before the latter’s move to Newcastle. He was disappointed to see his close ally exit and gave an exciting insight into how he operates.

“His role was about connecting the club,” Potter said in March 2022. “It was about using the academy, the recruitment department, analysis… all the different spokes of the wheel, shall we say, and connecting the club in a good way.

“From a head coach’s perspective, he was there to support and, at times, challenge and to