“‘Ridiculous’ – King criticizes Everton-linked Ashworth and advises Dan Friedkin to steer clear”
Bryan King urges the Friedkin Group to avoid appointing Dan Ashworth after Everton takeover.
The former Goodison Park scout is critical of the 53-year-old who recently stepped down as Manchester United’s sporting director after just five months in the role [BBC Sport, 8 December].
This abrupt departure may have put Everton’s current sporting director, Kevin Thelwell, under pressure.
Alex Crook recently speculated on talkSPORT [12 November] that Everton’s incoming owners, the Friedkin Group, could consider replacing Thelwell with Dan Ashworth.
This speculation follows the Premier League’s approval of the Friedkin Group’s takeover of Everton [Sky Sports News on X, 13 December].
However, speaking exclusively to Goodison News, King expressed his reservations about Ashworth’s potential appointment.
“I don’t think Everton appointing Ashworth would be a good idea,” King stated. “Not at all. I don’t think he’s achieved much at the clubs he’s been involved with.
At Newcastle United, what exactly did they win under his guidance? Then, Manchester United brought him in, which I found baffling, only for him to leave after just five months.
“These roles, which seem to give individuals so much control and influence, are not for me.
Ashworth certainly doesn’t meet my expectations. Everton should steer clear of him completely.”
Friedkin’s Decision on Ashworth
Thelwell’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and his tenure at Goodison Park has been underwhelming.
With the Friedkin Group poised to officially take over, Thelwell’s position may be uncertain.
However, whether Ashworth is the right choice to succeed him remains a contentious issue.
While Ashworth has had notable achievements in his career, his reputation has likely been tarnished by the Manchester United episode.
This situation could prompt Dan Friedkin to reconsider making a move for Ashworth. Regardless, one thing appears certain: the Friedkin Group is set to make its presence felt in Merseyside once the final approval for the takeover is granted [Ben Jacobs, 13 December].
