Newcastle United are set to replace Dave Watson as he prepares to depart amid a behind-the-scenes shake up at the club’s academy, according to the Chronicle.
The newspaper claim that the under-18 boss is heading out the exit door in the summer and he will be replaced, while the position of Ben Dawson is also up in the air as the Magpies plot a new role for the under-23 coach.
It is stated that there are significant changes planned at youth and reserve level with manager Rafael Benitez looking to stamp his mark on the club and the youngsters they are producing if he is to remain as boss of the north east side.
Opinion
Newcastle’s academy and reserves have been languishing in mediocrity in recent years but the emergence of Sean Longstaff in the first team shows that with the right mentoring and support, the club can create top quality stars. Elias Sorensen is another exciting youngster who looks destined to make his mark on Tyneside and there should be renewed optimism about the next generation of youngsters after so many years of flops. However, the most important thing to push the academy forward is Benitez staying on as manager, for is the Spaniard goes so does his philosophy and beliefs, which have undoubtedly had a positive impact at St James’ Park. Committing to fresh funding for the training ground should help Mike Ashley keep the man in the dugout satisfied somewhat, although it will take more than a couple of million pounds to get him to sign on the dotted line – something all Newcastle fans want ahead of this summer.