Another Back-Room Boy For Ashley!

Last updated : 24 June 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

Ashley has appointed former Walsall manager Richard Money to the newly-created post of Academy director.

The Journal: "The highly-regarded Money was appointed over the weekend and The Journal has been informed that his remit includes overseeing every one of United's youth teams from under-nine level through to the reserve side, which has been earmarked to become a testing ground for the club's emerging young professionals in future seasons.

"Money will lead a large staff at St James's Park including former Leeds United midfielder Alan Thompson, who has been appointed to coach the club's under-15s and under-16s from next season.

"As yet, there is no word from the club about how Money's appointment will affect the position of United's current Academy manager Joe Joyce."

Money: "It is a wonderful job and I'm relishing the chance to get started.

"This was too big a club to turn down. I have enjoyed being a manager for the last four years but this job at Newcastle is too big a challenge and too big an opportunity to turn down.

"I have enjoyed my break (since leaving Walsall) - it was a very tough two years with a lot of hard work to do. And while I enjoyed being a manager this is at a different level and it is something I am relishing. I am really looking forward to it."