Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has acknowledged that the club’s lack of a sporting director during the summer transfer window proved “hugely detrimental.” Following Paul Mitchell’s exit, Newcastle were left without a figurehead to oversee recruitment, leaving Howe, head of recruitment Steve Nickson, and assistant head of recruitment Andy Howe to manage the club’s transfer dealings.
Although the Magpies eventually completed some solid signings, the window was marked by frustration as several high-profile targets ultimately chose other clubs. Ross Wilson has since been installed as Mitchell’s successor, and earlier this week he outlined his transfer philosophy to the North East media.
Wilson indicated that Newcastle see greater value in pursuing players from overseas markets rather than relying heavily on Premier League options.
A common critique of the club’s recruitment under Howe has been a preference for players with English top-flight experience. Of Newcastle’s six summer additions, four fit that profile, while the two arrivals from abroad—Nick Woltemade and Malick Thiaw—have arguably been the most successful so far this season.
Howe and Wilson have already developed a positive working relationship, and when asked whether he supports the sporting director’s strategy, Howe confirmed he is fully aligned.
He believes Newcastle are now in a better position to explore foreign markets and will be far stronger in future transfer windows with Wilson leading the club’s recruitment structure.
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