Academy player-coach Tom Huddlestone admits he's bursting with pride to join Manchester United after the club announced his appointment into a hybrid role vacated by Paul McShane.
Huddlestone, 35, represented Derby County (twice), Tottenham, Wolves and Hull City throughout a playing career which also brought him four international caps. He will now be tasked with helping to guide the next generation at Old Trafford on the training ground and directly on the pitch.
United were keen to bring an experienced professional into their innovative position after McShane - who played alongside Huddlestone at Hull between 2013 and 2017 - opted to hang up his boots last season. McShane has since been promoted to a full-time development phase coach as part of the latest academy reshuffle.
READ MORE: Neville shares Martial prediction
That opened the door for Huddlestone and his appointment was confirmed on Wednesday morning. He played as recently as last season in the Championship with the Tigers - in a second spell at the club - and played 242 times in the Premier League throughout his career.
Huddlestone won four caps for England between 2009 and 2011 after being handed his debut by Fabio Capello. His role at United will be predominately based around coaching, although the holding midfielder will feature for the U21s whenever an experienced head is required.
Speaking about the appointment on social media, Huddlestone tweeted: "Over the moon to announce I have been given the opportunity at this amazing football club to help coach and develop the next generation of talent coming through the system. Grateful and honoured, [it's] now time to give back to the younger generation."
MORE TO READ:
