LEE Cattermole is set to leave his role as Middlesbrough Under-18s boss as the former midfielder looks to pursue the next step in his coaching career.

Cattermole rejoined Boro in January last year to take charge of the Under-18s and during his time back on Teesside briefly stepped up to assist the first team coaching staff after Chris Wilder's exit.

He impressed during his time at the club and was briefly favourite with the bookies for the head coach job before Michael Carrick's appointment 

Cattermole is now going to "explore what's out there" as he looks to take the next step in his coaching career, and will leave his Boro role at the end of February,

“I’ve really enjoyed my time with the U18s and can’t thank the club enough for giving me the opportunity,” he told the club website.

“Over time I’ve realised how important this role is and for the club to give me that trust is something I’ll always be grateful for.

“I’ve never made any secret of my ambitions as a coach and I feel now is the right time for me to explore what’s out there and consider fully my next step.

“I’d like to thank the players and staff for their efforts and opportunities for me to learn alongside them.”

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Boro academy chief Craig Liddle said: “We’ve always been clear over the direction that Catts wanted to move in, and it’s been great having someone of his experience working with our young players over the past 14 months.

“We wish Lee all the best for the future.”

James Marwood, who has been Cattermole's assistant, will step up to lead the Under-18s until the end of the season.