Ex-Sunderland sporting director lands new job at Celtic

Congerton handed in his notice at the Stadium of Light at the same time as Dick Advocaat's resignation in October 2015 after the sporting director had grown frustrated with the limitations of his role at the club.

He continued to hold down that position in the early stages of Sam Allardyce's tenure before going on gardening leave for the rest of his notice period.

Congerton's exit spelt the end of Ellis Short's experiment with a director of football system at Sunderland.

He is now back in football at Scottish giants Celtic, where he will have responsibility for the management of player recruitment and scouting operation, including the international scouting network.

Congerton said: "I am delighted to be joining a club of Celtic's stature, it is a huge honour and I can't wait to get started in making my contribution to such a fantastic institution.

"In recent years there has been some great work done at the club in the recruitment and development of some high-quality playing talent.

"I am really looking forward to adding my experience in this area and ensuring that we continue this high level of achievement.

"I know Brendan well, I know how he works and the quality he aims for.

"I am really looking forward to working with him again and Peter to ensure that we continue to bring the very best to Celtic and give our fans players and a team they will be proud of."

Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers added: "He brings knowledge, experience and excellence to such an important area of our work and I know he will add real value to the club."

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell added: "Lee was the outstanding candidate for this position and we are sure he will deliver real impact and benefit to the club."

Congerton has a UEFA pro coaching licence and has held coaching positions with the Welsh FA and Liverpool FC, he was head of scouting at Chelsea for seven years, technical director at German club Hamburg before his spell at Sunderland.