The life story and achievements of Dan Ashworth, the sporting director

Who is Dan Ashworth, and how has he contributed to the football arena? He is an English-based football director currently serving as a sporting director for Premier League club Newcastle United. He previously worked as technical director for West Bromwich Albion, Brighton, and Hove Albion. Moreover, he once worked as an FA director of elite development.

In 2018, there were speculations that Dan Ashworth may take over as Manchester United's new football director once Sir Jim Ratcliffe takes over at Old Trafford. And while the rumours are yet to be confirmed, the talented director remains a vital asset for the Premier League club Newcastle United. This article reveals more information about Dan Ashworth's signings, salary, and career highlights.

Dan Ashworth's profile summary

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How old is Dan Ashworth?

The renowned football director, Dan Ashworth (age 52 years as of January 2024), was born on 6 March 1971 in England, United Kingdom. He attended the College of West Anglia from 1987 to 1989.

Professional career and achievements

After spending time in the academy at Norwich City, Ashworth joined the non-league club Eastbourne Town, where he played 21 games and scored four goals before moving across to St Leonard's. He later spent time in the United States, coaching West Florida Fury, before returning to England to play for Wisbech Town.

The professional football director continued to be involved with football after retiring as a player, and he was appointed academy director at Peterborough United in 2000. His skills and performance proved impressive, and sooner or later, he became the centre of excellence director at Cambridge United.

His fame, however, skyrocketed in March 2004 when he moved to West Bromwich Albion as an assistant to the then-youth team manager, Aidy Boothroyd. After Aidy's departure, Dan became the youth team manager until he was promoted to the club's sporting and technical director in December 2007.

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In September 2012, the former professional athlete was appointed the FA director of elite development. He is known to be one of the creators of the "England DNA", a select player development plan which aims to help create winning senior teams in the men's and the women's game.

In August 2018, it was rumoured that Manchester United had shortlisted Ashworth as a candidate for the technical director. However, a month later, it was announced that the former athlete had resigned from his role with FA to take up the technical director role at Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion.

After completing his stint with Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion, it was confirmed that the former athlete had agreed to join Premier League club Newcastle United as their Sporting Director in February 2022. He has severally proven to be one of the best sporting directors since assuming office. Besides, he is known for being awarded the Maurice Burlaz Trophy in 2017.

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Dan Ashworth's signings

Thanks to his outstanding performances in his previous clubs, the Newcastle director, Dan Ashworth, was linked to take up the role of the new Manchester United director of football. Below is a list of Ashworth's signings at Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion.

• Leandro Trossard
• Tariq Lamptey
• Moises Caicedo
• Kaoru Mitoma
• Marc Cucurella
• Alexander Isak
• Anthony Gordon
• Sven Botman
• Nick Pope
• Tino Livramento

Dan Ashworth's salary and net worth

According to The Sports Grail, the former soccer player signed with Newcastle United on a $2.5 million deal annually. As of January 2024, he has an estimated net worth ranging between $5 million and $10 million. He has primarily made his fortune through soccer endeavours.

Frequently asked questions

Dan has accomplished a lot and showcased outstanding performances since debuting. Here are some interesting facts about him that you would love to know.

Is Dan Ashworth Manchester United's sporting director?

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The professional is currently the sporting director of Newcastle United. However, although he has been linked to Manchester United, it is yet to be confirmed.

Who is Dan Ashworth's wife?

As per Express & Star, Dan's wife is Sian, and they have a son, Zac Ashworth, a professional football player who plays as a defender for EFL League One club Bolton Wanderers on loan from EFL Championship club West Bromwich Albion.

How tall is Dan Ashworth?

Judging by the photos Dan has appeared in and the people he has appeared next to, his height is estimated to be 170 cm or 1.7m.

Final word

Although Dan Ashworth prefers to maintain a low profile, especially regarding his personal life, he has impressive career stats to showcase. Moreover, he has a son, Zac Ashworth, a well-decorated football player.

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