Sunderland AFC news: Bosses explain new academy structure after departure of key coach to Southampton

Sunderland have announced the additions of three members of staff at the Academy of Light.

Jonjo Dickman is now head of youth development phase & individual development coach after making the move from the under-11 and 12 lead coach role

Age group coaches Finbarr Lynch and Jordan Moore will assume responsibility for all players between the Uuder-15 to under-18 age groups,

Sunderland have also stated that Carlton Fairweather and John Hewitson also take on a "slight shift" in their responsibilities and will play "key roles in the delivery of the programme."

The moves come after under-18 lead coach Adam Ashgar was poached by Championship rivals Southampton earlier this season.

“The opening of the U18 Lead Coach role gave us the opportunity to achieve two strategic aims that are important to us here at the Academy and overall, at the club," academy manager, Robin Nicholls said: 

"It provided us with the chance to give a pathway to two high potential coaches within our structure and allows us to put in place a programme that focuses upon each player's individual development rather than the traditional approach of coaching a team.”

Stuart English, Sunderland's head of coaching, added: “After a lengthy interview process, we are really pleased to internally promote Fin, Jordan and Jonjo into their new roles.

"These three individuals have shown an incredible desire to help the Academy continue to move forwards by going above and beyond to ensure the players' individual needs are met every day.

"They all share a passion to work for the Club and an energy to deepen their own learning whilst improving collectively, which is fundamental to everyone at the Academy of Light.”