Grant Leadbitter returns to Middlesbrough, taking up intriguing new academy coaching role

Grant Leadbitter has returned to Middlesbrough, taking up a new coaching role within the academy. Leadbitter has been appointed Boro's Individual Development Coach - a new role at the club.

Leadbitter spent five years at Boro between 2012 and 2019 as a player, becoming a fan-favourite and captaining his side to Premier League promotion in the 2015-16 season. He left in January 2019 to rejoin his boyhood club Sunderland before retiring in the summer of 2021.

And since hanging up his boots the midfielder has been taking his coaching badges, regularly returning to Rickliffe as Boro supported him with the qualification. Having completed his UEFA A Licence last term, Leadbitter has now been given the official role in Boro's academy.

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As individual development coach Leadbitter will work with players across the different age groups where he will offer added coaching and support, and will also work with closely with the coaches within the academy at Rockliffe. Boro's academy boss Craig Liddle is hoping Leadbitter's experience and character can rub off on Boro's young prospects, hoping to one day make it into the first-team.

On the appointment, Liddle told the club website: “It’s great to have someone with Grant’s experience on board. He’s worked hard on his coaching qualifications over the past year and he brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding. He’s an example for the young players in our Academy because of what he achieved in his career and he knows what it takes to be a good professional.”

Leadbitter, 36, starts immediately at the club. He made 230 appearances for Boro during his playing career while also enjoying spells at Sunderland and Ipswich. A