James Marwood has been appointed as the new lead coach for Middlesbrough Under-18s following four months in the role on a caretaker basis.
Boro confirmed today that the former Forest Green striker had taken on the position permanently ahead of their upcoming U18s Premier League North campaign.
The Middlesbrough youngsters finished ninth last season, slightly above Nottingham Forest and just below Derby County in somewhat of an East Midlands sandwich.
Former Boro midfielder Lee Cattermole had initially led the Under-18s last season, but the 35-year-old departed at the end of February to pursue new coaching opportunities elsewhere.
On his departure, Cattermole stated, “I have never made any secret of my ambitions as a coach, and I feel now is the right time for me to explore what is out there and consider fully my next step”.
Marwood was Cattermole’s assistant prior to taking on caretaker duties, so it was the logical next step in his career to take over the role as lead coach.
Under the 33-year-old, Boro U18s played nine matches and won on three occasions.
Unfortunately for Marwood, his own playing career was cut short due to an ankle injury whilst playing for Gateshead at just 25 years of age.
Before his injury, the forward had also played for Blyth Spartans, Team Northumbria, Halifax Town and St Mirren.
How will Marwood get on?
By 2018, the coach had joined the Boro Academy as U18s assistant and has never looked back since.
Former Doncaster Rovers defender Rob Jones will join Marwood as his assistant coach having previously led Boro’s U16s.
Speaking to Middlesbrough’s website, the new U18s lead coach said, “I am passionate about the development of young players, and this is a great opportunity.
“Having been involved for the last five years or so, I know the importance of the academy here and what it brings to the football club.”