Newcastle get their most valuable recruit - the next phase of the project has begun

Have you heard about the hot transfer of Dan Ashworth? No? That's alright because he's not a star striker nor a promising winger. This guy is 51 years old and is not a player at all. He is the man who plans transfers, identifies targets and makes them a reality!

Newcastle United have appointed former Brighton and Hove Albion executive Ashworth as their director of football. Even though there was an agreement in place since February, Brighton wouldn't let him go to Newcastle right away but have placed him on gardening leave, i.e. they were paying him full wages for nothing just to delay the start of his Newcastle career. It's common practice for people who have access to sensitive information in their workplace.

This former player and coach has quickly realized that his biggest talent is recruitment. His work with the England national team earned him the reputation of one of the finest football brains in the country. In that role, he had a significant role in overhauling the England system.

Tuesday, 21.45: (2.35) Germany (3.30) England (3.35)

Creating what is known as the "England DNA" performance plan, Ashworth earned high praise and respect in the football industry. It was only a matter of time before a Premier League club would come calling. He lifted Brighton to another level in the past three years with his bright planning, knowledge, and business talent. Now he's tasked with doing the same and better at Newcastle.

With no director of football in place during the January transfer window, manager Eddie Howe had to do most things by himself. The club has done well in the market, and Howe will still have substantial input on transfers. However, Ashworth's arrival will give the coach more time to focus on the training pitch, while the new guy will negotiate deals, discuss contracts and speak to player agents. He begins work right away.

"Newcastle United is an incredible football club and I'm delighted to be joining at this very exciting time. Each time I've been to St. James' Park in the past, I have been reminded of the club's long history and the unrivalled passion of its fan base. It is a huge football club with great potential, and I am incredibly positive about what we can collectively achieve."

Newcastle's Saudi owners have huge ambitions, and now they've gotten one of the people who should be instrumental in transforming the club from mid-table dwellers to title challengers.