NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 15: Newcastle United Head Coach Eddie Howe speaks to the media during the first press conference of the season at the Newcastle United Media Centre on August 15, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
Newcastle United via Getty Images
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe says new sporting director Ross Wilson will be a “great addition” after his appointment was confirmed this week.
Wilson left Nottingham Forest after a release clause in his contract was activated. He had been known to be the top candidate to replace Paul Mitchell after his sudden exit at the end of last season.
Howe was aware Wilson would be arriving but was not heavily involved in the process, despite an existing relationship between the pair.
“I have known Ross for several years; he has been around the game for a long time and done well,” Howe said before Newcastle travels to Brighton on Saturday.
“Working with him now, it will be interesting to see how our relationship develops. He seems a positive person, a good person. I back Ross’ appointment, and I hope we can work together well and have success. I think Ross will be a great addition.”
Howe joked that he wouldn’t be too quick to discuss transfers with Wilson, but said meetings between the pair had taken place. New contracts for players such as Sandro Tonali, Tino Livramento and Sven Botman are also high on the agenda.
“I think I’ll let him sit down and get used to his new surrounds first before I start bombarding him with that (transfers).
“[Contracts] are waiting for Ross. Those conversations will all be led by him. And of course I’m sure he’s all over that and starting conversations accordingly.”
Newcastle United has no fresh injuries before Brighton
Although a number of Newcastle players are returning from international duty, Howe says he doesn’t think there are any fitness concerns ahead of the trip to the AMEX Stadium.
Tonali will return on Friday but is expected to play, while Jacob Ramsey will be in the squad after his return from injury.
“I think everyone has come back okay, little concern over Joelinton but think he has come back okay. We’ll see how he trains today.
“Jacob Ramsey has had a couple of sessions. Didn’t want to push him too much, he trained in the break and looked good, pleased where he is now.”
Lewis Hall was a surprise omission from the team that beat Nottingham Forest two weeks ago as he was managing his return from a foot injury.
Howe said he had suffered a hamstring injury, but a recent scan suggests he will return in November.
“Lewis’ second scan was good news. We think he will be back during this period of games before the next international break.”