When the news unofficially broke a month or so ago that Everton were to part company with Under-21s boss Paul Tait, I had the feeling that it would not be a like-for-like replacement that we would see at the club.
New Technical Director Nick Cox has led a comprehensive review of the Academy. As part of that, the headlines are as follows:
Dean Rastrick formally took up his role as Everton’s new Academy Director in June.
Carl Darlington has been appointed Head of Academy Coach Development.
Dave Hughes,
joins the Club in the new role of Head of Academy Player Development.
Ben Dickson has been promoted to Head of Academy Recruitment.
Nick Chadwick (an ex Blues striker from 1998 to 2005) has been appointed PDP Senior Coach & Loans Programme Manager.
In addition there is an as-yet unconfirmed addition being widely reported, namely Matthew Taylor, ex-player for Portsmouth, Bolton Wanderers, West Ham and Burnley as well as having managerial experience since retirement as a player, with Walsall, Shrewsbury Town, Wealdstone and Solihull Moors.
What is becoming clear is that as part of his wider remit as Head of Academy Player Development, Hughes (pictured below when managing Newport County at the beginning of last season) will also look after the Under 21s. Regardless of the job title, somebody of course, has to be on the touchline barking instructions to the players!
In terms of notable achievements by any of the newcomers, Hughes was assistant manager for Manchester United Under 21s for a couple of recent seasons along with roles with the Wales Youth teams, Southampton, Aston Villa, Cardiff City and Birmingham City.
Reading between the lines (my opinion only here) the emphasis is most definitely on Academy Player Development rather than Under 21s coach who has to win games etc. It may only be subtle as who on earth would want their Under 21 teams getting thrashed every week, but it is a difference nonetheless.
No mention thus far of Keith Southern who has done an outstanding job as Under 18s head coach.
Cox told evertonfc.com:
“We’ve spent the last six months conducting a strategic review of our Academy structure and these changes and appointments are part of that process.
“Our focus is on building an outstanding learning environment that is challenging, nurturing and supportive. To achieve that, it’s essential we identify and empower leaders who can drive standards, and create a culture where players and coaches can fulfil their potential.
“Dean’s arrival is key to that vision. He arrives with a truly exceptional CV. His extensive experience across respected youth systems – including Norwich City, Tottenham Hotspur, Luton Town, and Derby County – alongside his impactful work with the Premier League’s Professional Game Academy Audit Company (PGAAC), gives him incredible insight and expertise in all aspects of player development and driving Academy excellence.”
Cox added:
“I’d like to thank Paul for his passion, dedication, loyalty and commitment during his time at Everton, and everyone at the Club wishes him all the very best for the future.”
So, we wait to see what the differences will be as we prepare for the imminent announcement of the new scholar intake and also the return to training for all the existing Under 21 and Under 18 players. Interesting times ahead!
