Roy Keane reveals his big Dan Ashworth concern as Manchester United target Newcastle man

Roy Keane says Dan Ashworth’s history of job-hopping should be a point of concern for Manchester United amid their approach of the Newcastle United chief.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has singled Ashworth out as his primary target for the inaugural sporting director role at Old Trafford and the 52-year-old himself wishes to take up the offer. United will likely have to pay significant compensation to Newcastle, who are fearful of his exit.

Ashworth was a senior figure within the Football Association between 2012 and 2018 before becoming a technical director at Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019. He was snapped up by Newcastle in February 2022, shortly after the club was taken over by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.

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Keane is not entirely at ease with Ashworth’s frequent shift in employment over the last six years and worries about what longevity he would offer United. The former club captain hailed his work over that period but says his appointment does not come without risk.

Speaking on the Stick To Football podcast, Keane said: “You’re talking about Dan Ashworth coming into Manchester United and being the best for the job, but he doesn’t seem to hang around for long.

“He was at Brighton for a few years, and he’s only been at Newcastle for a couple seasons, so you have to look at that too. There’s no doubt he’s brilliant at his job, but who is to say he won’t leave in 18 months for Real Madrid or Barcelona.”

Erik ten Hag says he would welcome the arrival of new board members to help manage the sporting side of United. The manager said on Thursday: “I am working, I am happy