Newcastle United have been rocked by a development regarding their attempts to appoint Michael Emenalo at St James’s Park.
The former Chelsea director of football has been Newcastle’s first-choice candidate to oversee the enormous overhaul of players that the Magpies desperately need on Tyneside.
But The Telegraph has this afternoon reported that Emenalo has turned down a chance to become United’s director of football.
The report adds that Emenalo – who co-owner Jamie Reuben wanted – received an offer considered by him to be unsuitable, but there has been no fall-out between the parties.
Instead, The Telegraph are reporting that Newcastle could promote a certain Frank McParland in the short term.
McParland is already at St James’s Park working in an advisory role and it’ll be interesting to see if the Magpies do bump him up to becoming a more senior figure, in light of the Emenalo blow.
Disappointing
This is undeniably a disappointing development if you’re a Newcastle supporter but, by the same token, McParland is no mug.
The simple fact that the North-East outfit have already enlisted his services is testament to his experience and knowledge.
McParland is a former Liverpool scout and if he’s charged with overseeing United’s January transfer window then, honestly, they could do a hell of a lot worse.
He also worked with Rangers and operated as their head of recruitment – a similar role to the one he’d be doing at Newcastle if appointed.
Interestingly, Rafael Benitez also wanted McParland – who worked at Anfield during the Spaniard’s reign – on Tyneside when he was manager.
Eddie Howe’s side are rock bottom of the Premier League standings ahead of hosting Burnley at St James’s Park this afternoon.
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