Dan Ashworth (R) speaks with Gareth Southgate (L) ahead of a friendly against Germany. GETTY IMAGES
FA Technical Dir Dan Ashworth is expected to become the new technical director of EPL side Brighton & Hove Albion in a "potentially damaging blow" to England men's national team Manager Gareth Southgate and the FA, according to John Percy of the London TELEGRAPH. Ashworth was targeted by Brighton in a key appointment and "there is a growing sense that he will depart in the next few weeks." Ashworth is "thought to have been considering a return to club football for some time" and Brighton is "confident of agreeing a compensation deal with the FA." Brighton is using London-based agency Nolan Partners to assist in its search and it is understood that Ashworth is "ready to leave the FA after six years in the post." Ashworth has "overseen huge success" through England's youth setup since joining the FA from West Bromwich Albion in '12. Southgate’s England team also managed its "most successful tournament for decades this year," eventually losing to Croatia in the World Cup semifinals. Ashworth was credited as playing a "huge part" in the progress of those teams over the years and his departure would be a "huge blow" for the FA and Southgate (TELEGRAPH, 9/24).
