July 1 (Reuters) - Manchester United ( MANU ) have appointed Dan Ashworth as sporting director, the Premier League club said on Monday, several months after he stepped down from his position at Newcastle United.

Newcastle had placed the highly-rated 53-year-old, the former technical director at Brighton & Hove Albion, on gardening leave after he quit in February.

Ashworth's move comes after British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe took control of football operations at Old Trafford, acquiring a 25% stake in February.

"Newcastle United and Manchester United ( MANU ) have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United," the two clubs said in a statement.

"The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future."