Former Wanderers boss Dougie Freedman has been backed to land the sporting director role at Newcastle United.

Freedman has been linked with the position as the Magpies search for a successor to Dan Ashworth, who was placed on gardening leave in February amid discussions over a potential appointment at Manchester United.

The 49-year-old is currently sporting director at Crystal Palace – a role he has held since the summer of 2017 – and has gained plaudits for his role in the transfers of Eberechi Eze, Michael Olise and Adam Wharton among others.

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness believes Freedman would be a good candidate for the role given his experience at Selhurst Park.

He told 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.”

Freedman took charge at Wanderers in 2012 following Owen Coyle’s departure and spent a couple of years in the hot seat. The Scot also had a spell in the dugout at Nottingham Forest before returning to Selhurst Park.

Palace currently sit 12th in the Premier League table under Oliver Glasner, having won five of their last six matches following a 3-1 victory at Wolves on Saturday.

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