Robbie Stockdale has been appointed the new Head of Youth at Grimsby Town.
Stockdale who started his playing career at Middlesbrough has been capped by both England as an U21 and Scotland for whom he won 5 full caps.
Having played under Bryan Robson, Terry Venables, Steve Mclaren and Bertie Vogts, he brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
The 30 year old defender will not however be hanging his boots up yet as he will continue to be registered as a first-team player for the forthcoming season.
He takes over from Adam Smith, who stood in when Neil Woods was appointed first-team Manager last November.
Speaking about his new role, Stockdale said:
“Neil and the rest of the staff have seen me coaching with the School of Excellence and Neil’s asked me to do the job.”
“It’s an important role and I feel very proud to have been asked to do the job.”
“It’s something I always wanted to get in to. I’ve always loved the game and I hope I can bring my experience in to what is another chapter in my life.”
“Coaching and possibly getting into management is something that has always interested me. I got my badges quite early in my career and I’m now looking forward to it.”
He will meet up with the Youth team on Wednesday when they report back for pre-season training.