Newcastle United news: Ex-CEO can’t believe Staveley could now derail sporting director hunt
Former Everton chief Keith Wyness has insisted Amanda Staveley’s legal battle will not affect Newcastle United’s search for a new sporting director.
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 – claimed the case won’t affect the footballing side of the Magpies in any way.
Staveley has recently been involved in a court case dating back to 2008 after being sued by Greek shipping magnate Victor Restis.
Restis originally demanded over £35million from the Newcastle co-owner – but has dropped claims for interest and legal fees, leaving the amount at around £3.4million.
However, Staveley must now pay the full amount by April 22 or face a bankruptcy order – which would disqualify her from being a part of the Magpies board or being a shareholder in the club.
The 50-year-old brokered the Saudi-backed takeover in 2021 and owns 6% of the club’s shares.
£3.4m Staveley case won’t affect Newcastle search for Ashworth replacement, says Wyness
Wyness insisted the case will not affect the most pressing footballing issue at St James’ Park right now – replacing outgoing sporting director Dan Ashworth.
He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “This won’t affect the search for a new sporting director at all
“I don’t think this case will affect the football side in any way.
“Amanda wasn’t even present at the court case, so it’s not even taking her time up.
“It’s a personal issue for her, and I’m sure it will all be resolved in due course.”
In other news, Newcastle hatch stunning plan to ‘dominate’ – six deals already agreed.
For more Newcastle United news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.