Newcastle United told why Dan Ashworth needs to be the first of 'many appointments'

Newcastle United legend Rob Lee believes the expected appointment of Dan Ashworth should be the first of 'many' behind the scenes.

The former FA technical director has resigned from his post at Brighton, but will remain on gardening leave ahead of his likely arrival at St James' Park.

Ashworth is credited for playing a significant role in reshaping England's fortunes under Gareth Southgate before joining the Seagulls in 2018.

The 50-year-old would become Newcastle's first director of football since Joe Kinnear's unexpected appointment during the 2013/14 campaign.

Lee was a pundit on BT Sport's coverage of the Magpies' home victory over Everton on Tuesday night, and believes the new owners are aware of the scale of the rebuild needed behind the scenes.

The former number seven said: "He will certainly be a key component because there is so much that Newcastle have got to do.

"There is so much going on behind the scenes, there may be as many appointments behind the scenes to make as they do when it comes to players.

"It has been in decline for so long and I think the owners have realised they have to get it right on the pitch first, but behind the scenes there are quite a few appointments that they need to make."

This view was shared by fellow pundit and former Everton and Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott, who believes Ashworth could prove to be Newcastle's most valuable signing of the new era.

Lescott added: "He will bring experience. I think arguably that could be the most important position they fill, regardless of any player they sign in the next transfer window.

"He has obviously done exceptionally well at the FA, and at Brighton so to get someone of that calibre into the club to guide them forward and