Howe hopes director will be in soon

NEWCASTLE United boss Eddie Howe is hopeful of working with a new sporting director before the summer transfer window as the search for Dan Ashworth’s replacement edges towards a conclusion.

The Magpies’ summer plans are being drawn up between Howe, his nephew Andy - who currently works as assistant head of first-team recruitment - and chief scout Steve Nickson. Although it is looking more and more likely Howe will get his summer wish as the recruitment process draws to a close.

A number of highly-rated candidates have been assessed since Ashworth signalled his intentions to depart for Manchester United earlier this season.

The Chronicle understands Brentford director of football Phil Giles, who grew up supporting Newcastle, was considered for the role in the early stages. In recent weeks the likes of ex-monaco chief Paul Mitchell and former Newcastle star Hugo Viana have been touted as possible arrivals.

Now it is Crystal Palace’s Dougie Freedman who leads the race after impressing Toon chiefs in recent weeks.

The former Eagles manager, now the club’s sporting director, has significant Premier League experience and an exciting transfer track record in south east London.

Asked if he hopes for an appointment before the start of the summer window, Howe said: “Ideally. With any transfer window, whether it’s January or the summer, if you can be best prepared with the best tools you’ll have better results.

“So yes, but I don’t think it’s absolutely imperative because we will work regardless within the same systems and the same way we’ve always done.”