One of Newcastle’s so-called Cockney Mafia has left the club. Vice-president (player recruitment) Tony Jimenez has left the club “to pursue other interests”.

A statement released by Newcastle said: “Newcastle United can confirm that Tony Jimenez has left the club. Tony, who was appointed vice-president (player Recruitment) in January, has made the decision in order to pursue other interests. Newcastle United thanks Tony for all of his hard work and efforts and wishes him every success in the future.”

The Brixton-born businessman was a close ally of Dennis Wise at the club and was one of the targets of the Cockney Mafia jibes by the Toon Army during recent protests.