Ineos' next steps in replacing Dan Ashworth at Man United 'revealed' as January plan emerges

Manchester United are not expected to directly replace Dan Ashworth in the club hierarchy after his shock exit. Ashworth left the club on Sunday morning after just five months at Old Trafford.

After being appointed as the club's first-ever sporting director, the 53-year-old's contract was terminated after the 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest. His exit has placed further concern over Ineos' running of the club after they sacked Erik ten Hag not long after handing the Dutchman a new deal.

United confirmed in a statement that Ashworth's exit was mutually agreed but reports have suggested otherwise. A recent report by The Sun has claimed Sir Jim Ratcliffe is considering ditching the sporting director role and instead share the responsibilities out.

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According to a report by the Daily Mail, a like-for-like replacement for Ashworth will not be targeted by United although another executive appointment is not being ruled out. The report also claims the club hierarchy are contemplating how best to approach the departure of Ashworth.

CEO Omar Berrada, technical director Jason Wilcox, interim director of recruitment Christopher Vivell and Ineos director of sport Sir David Brailsford could all be part of the team that shares the responsibilities of the sporting director.

It's understood that Berrada and Wilcox will split the majority of Ashworth's responsibilities while Vivell will continue to lead the recruitment side of things alongside director of negotiations Matt Hargreaves.

A new face in the group isn't being ruled out by the club. United are said to be keen on adding someone to oversee control of the strategic and operational tasks that Ashworth has left behind.