Newcastle United appoint former Gwalia United boss James Thomas as academy manager | OneFootball

Newcastle United have announced the appointment of former Gwalia United boss James Thomas as academy manager.

He will be overseeing the Magpies’ Professional Game Academy, having previously worked in a similar role for Bristol City.

More recently, he was manager of Gwalia United in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier. He was appointed as interim boss at the turn of the year and then given the role permanently in the summer. However, he stepped down last month, with the club saying: “We are grateful to James for his hard work and commitment during his time with the club and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”

He said at the time: “Personally, now is a time to reflect and refresh before I attack whatever my next challenge may be.”

He now becomes the latest appointment at Newcastle United.

James Thomas “delighted” to join the club

“I am delighted to be joining a club with such exciting plans and ambitions for the women’s team,” Thomas said in a statement.

“We want to become a leading academy in the women’s game and the destination of choice for talented young footballers across the country.

“There are excellent foundations already in place for our academy and now it is about building upon those and developing them to help players fulfil their potential.”

Grace Williams, the club’s director of women’s football, said: “I am excited to start working with James. This club has a legacy of developing home grown talent through the pathway and making their mark in the first team, and that is what we want to continue.”

Newcastle United: coaching structure

Newcastle United have had several coaching structure changes in recent months. Williams herself was announced in her role in August this year. First-team boss Becky Langley left her position last month, with Claire Ditchburn assuming temporary charge.