David Hopkinson – Newcastle United’s new CEO – has set out his ambition to ‘create magic’ with the Magpies – and how he intends to achieve it.

He arrived at the club on Friday and spent his first day engaging with staff at St. James’ Park, before heading to the Training Centre, Academy and Newcastle United Women.

“This is a special place,” he remarked while touring the Magpies’ iconic ground. “We’re at St. James’ Park, on the pitch where legends have performed. These stands have held fans who are passionate about this team, so it’s an incredible foundation. We’re beginning from such a strong position – but also facing this chance of real transformation as we prepare to compete on the grandest stages, aiming higher than at certain points in the club’s history.

The Canadian brings over 25 years of senior leadership and commercial experience across three nations, delivering success for some of sport’s most renowned and valuable organisations, and he reflected on his ‘journey’ to St. James’ Park, from basketball to the Bernabéu, from New York to Newcastle.

He continued: “I’ve spent my whole career preparing for a role just like this, so it’s an amazing feeling.

“I thrive on big challenges – big, global challenges – and I believe there’s an ambition being unlocked here at Newcastle to claim an even greater presence on the world stage, in the world game. That’s inspiring. That’s thrilling.”