MIDDLESBROUGH have confirmed the permanent appointment of James Marwood as the club's new Under-18s lead coach.

Marwood stepped into the role in February initially on a temporary basis following the exit of Lee Cattermole, and the switch has now been made permanent.

Former Doncaster defender Rob Jones, who was previously in charge of Boro's Under-16s, will be Marwood's assistant.

“I’m passionate about the development of young players, and this is a great opportunity," Marwood told the club website.

“Having been involved for the last five years or so, I know the importance of the academy here and what it brings to the football club.”

Marwood, a former striker who played for Gateshead, St Mirren and Forest Green joined Boro as assistant coach of the Under-18s five years ago.

He worked alongside Cattermole before the former midfielder opted to leave Boro in February to pursue the next step in his coaching career. Cattermole was part of the interim coaching team put in place to lead the first team after the exit of Chris Wilder and before the arrival of Michael Carrick.

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When he left the club, Cattermole said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time with the U18s and can’t thank the club enough for giving me the opportunity.

“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.”