Dougie Freedman backed to land Newcastle job by ex-PL CEO
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Dougie Freedman has a “good reputation” and would be suitable for the sporting director role at Newcastle United.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – suggested the Crystal Palace 49-year-old’s ability to work with big and small budgets will be an asset.
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday (7 May) that Newcastle have made Palace recruitment chief Freedman a key part of their sporting director shortlist.
It is believed the Magpies want the ex-Nottingham Forest manager to replace Dan Ashworth, who has agreed a move to Man United.
Freedman was linked with a potential move to Man United under the new Sir Jim Ratcliffe regime earlier this season, but a move has not materialised.
Freedman backed to land Newcastle director role after shortlist news
Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi, Joachim Andersen and Cheick Doucoure are among the high-profile stars to arrive at Crystal Palace since his appointment in 2017.
Wyness told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “We’re a long way from fans chanting the name of a sporting director.
“As long as they feel it is a competent person with a great network, fans are happy.
“That is what Dougie Freedman would bring. He’s already got a good reputation in the game.
“He’s worked on some great issues, and with lower budgets as well as higher budgets.
“He would be a good selection for the job, so good luck to him.
“A football director’s work is not usually in full view of the fans until transfers are made. The only real credit comes when trophies are won and then the dividends are paid out.”
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