Newcastle Remove Director of Football Role after Joe Kinnear's Resignation

Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley has no plans to replace the club's former director of football Joe Kinnear.

The 67-year-old resigned from his post after just eight months on Monday night having failed to make a single permanent signing during the two transfer windows he oversaw despite the sale of the influential Yohan Cabaye.

Press Association Sport understands the unpopular Ashley will not appoint a replacement having also quashed speculation that former managing director Derek Llambias will return to the club on a short term basis.

Llambias was often a polarising figure amongst Newcastle fans having been involved in a number of controversial decisions during his five-year spell; chiefly the one that saw Kinnear appointed manager in 2008 and changing the name of the St James' Park to Sports Direct Arena.

But the businessman did win acclaim for his role in Newcastle's successful recruitment policy, which provided the basis for their fifth place finish in the 2011/12 football season.

Although it is understood Ashley and Lambias still have a healthy relationship, there are no plans to reinstate the former managing director.

Newcastle confirmed Kinnear's departure through a brief statement on Monday evening: "Newcastle United can confirm that Joe Kinnear has this evening resigned from his position as director of football with immediate effect. The club will be making no further comment."

Although the Magpies did conclude a loan deal for long term target Luuk de Jong, questions will continue to be asked about the club's failure to replace Cabaye following his £20.4m move to Paris Saint Germain.

The club saw their opening bid for Lyon midfielder Clement Grenier rejected a day before transfer deadline day and although Alan Pardew remained hopeful of a deal being done, the 23-year-old chose to remain at Les Gones.

The North East giants also failed in their attempts to bring Remy Cabella to the club, another candidate to fill the void in midfield. But the 23-year-old insists he made the right decision in turning Newcastle's offer down to remain at Montpeillier.

"I made the right choice to stay in Montpellier. I have goals, I hope to achieve," Cabella told French broadcaster RMC.

"I was glad that they were interested in me but the most important is being here with Montpellier.

"I do not see myself leaving. I am 100% focused with the team."