Toony gets wired in to Red Bulls

Newcastle owner hires Scotland boss to consult

- BY GRAEME MACPHERSON

GREGOR TOWNSEND is leading a tartan takeover of Newcastle Red Bulls.

The Scotland head coach has been hired by the energy drink giants as a part-time rugby consultant.

That will see him juggle his national team commitments alongside 30 days a year as an advisor working for Red Bull - who bought over Newcastle this summer. Toony recently signed a new deal to stay as Scotland boss until the 2027 World Cup.

And it’s understood being allowed to also work for Red Bull during non-international windows formed part of that arrangement.

Toony is one of four figures with Scottish links drafted in by Newcastle after they sacked director of rugby Steve Diamond. Former Scotland cap Jonny Petrie is the Premiership club's new managing director.