Journalist throws out name to 'keep an eye on' as Newcastle United hunt for Paul Mitchell's successor

Sporting director Paul Mitchell is set to leave his role at Newcastle United at the end of this month, with the board now hunting for his replacement.

As far as that position goes, Newcastle have not had much luck with two sporting directors being appointed and then leaving soon after, before having made any kind of impact.

However, the club are determined to stick with the model and is already on the lookout for their next sporting director.

Nottingham Forest's Ross Wilson is said to be the current frontrunner with former Arsenal man Jason Ayto also linked with the role.

Newcastle could turn their attention back to Brentford's Phil Giles

Now, journalist Graeme Bailey has thrown another name into the mix, telling Geordie Boot Boys to keep an eye on Brentford's Phil Giles.

“Newcastle know they need to get this right, they realise that the appointment of Paul Mitchell did not quite work out.

“Eddie Howe will play some sort of role in getting the right man, him working with the sporting director is crucial.

“Ross Wilson is a top name in football, his work at Rangers, Southampton and Nottingham Forest has been outstanding – he is a top candidate.

“I would also keep an eye on Phil Giles at Brentford – a Geordie by birth, he is a fascinating option should Newcastle make a move.”

Geordie Giles would surely be a good fit for Newcastle United

Phil Giles, a lifelong Newcastle United fan, was considered as a replacement for Dan Ashworth before Mitchell was appointed.

It probably wouldn't be easy to get Giles to leave Brentford after 10 years, even if it would be to go to his beloved Newcastle, although, with Thomas Frank looking like he's heading to Tottenham to replace Ange Postecoglou, Giles could see this as the perfect time for change.

Giles' record at Brentford has been impressive. He was responsible for bringing in the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, who have been outstanding for The Bees.

We'd be in favour of a move for Giles as his love for Newcastle United, you'd expect, would reduce the risk of him bailing after 12 months and leaving us in the lurch.