“Reputation Under Fire: Simon Jordan Weighs in on Latest Newcastle United Drama”

Old Trafford officials worked tirelessly to lure the sporting director away from St James’ Park.

A five-month public saga grew contentious, with Ashworth placed on gardening leave as the clubs negotiated a compensation deal.

The 53-year-old eventually joined Manchester United in July but was dismissed on Saturday, just months into his tenure.

The decision followed United’s 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest over the weekend.

Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan previously supported Newcastle’s firm stance during the dispute.

Now, he has questioned whether Ashworth truly deserved his prestigious reputation.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Jordan said, “The bottom line is you’ve got personalities there and marginal gains, which obviously play a role. They needed to own their decisions.

His influence was evident in the appointment of Erik ten Hag, which isn’t necessarily a glowing endorsement.

“Many people in football have reputations they haven’t earned.

I’m not saying that applies to Dan Ashworth. I recently spoke to Eddie Howe, who was diplomatically polite about him.

“But Ashworth navigates opportunities that suit him. He found himself in the biggest opportunity of his career.

This was the moment to prove if he was truly as capable as people believed.

“It’s one thing achieving success at Brighton, performing well at West Brom, and aiding Newcastle’s rebuild during the ‘anybody-but-Ashley’ era as far as fans were concerned.

It’s another thing stepping into the biggest spotlight and, after five months, departing for whatever reason.”

Ashworth’s abrupt exit raises questions about whether his track record justified the significant effort Manchester United invested to secure him.