Newcastle confirm Wise appointment

The 41-year-old former Leeds boss will take on the role of executive director (football), while Tony Jimenez will become vice-president (player recruitment) and Jeff Vetere technical co-ordinator.

Chairman Chris Mort said: "This is all part of the vision that recently helped us to secure Kevin Keegan's return to the club as manager."

Former Wimbledon and Chelsea midfielder Wise will assist the club's board on football-related matters, including player recruitment and the development of the Academy.

However, as expected, he will have no day-to-day involvement on the playing side as manager Kevin Keegan and his staff attempt to restore the club's fortunes on the field.

Businessman Jimenez and Vetere, formerly an international scout for Real Madrid, will also assist in player recruitment.

Mort said: "Two of the conclusions of our strategic review, since acquiring the club, were that the club would benefit from having a football person involved at board level, which it has not had historically, and that further senior resources are needed for recruiting players of the highest quality from this country and further afield.

"Dennis would like to move away from day-to-day football management to a board role and, with his considerable energy and intelligence, we believe he will do very well in this new position.

"With Kevin able to devote his efforts to developing and running the first team squad, Dennis, Tony and Jeff will each help us to secure success for Newcastle United Football Club at all levels and for the long-term.

"One or two further key appointments will follow in the months ahead."