Manchester United appoint new academy coach in backroom staff reshuffle

Manchester United have appointed David Hughes as a professional development phase coach, the 44-year-old arriving from Cardiff City's youth set-up.

The former Aston Villa defender was the Bluebirds’ academy manager, having been appointed in November 2020. His youth coaching CV lists Watford, Villa and Southampton, among others.

Hughes, according to Training Ground Guru, will mainly work with the Under-21s at United, but will help across all junior levels. His appointment comes after Neil Wood departed to become Salford City’s manager and assistant Neil Ryan also moved on.

READ MORE: Manchester United youngsters complete pre-season double over Hearts

Mark Dempsey is said to have been named as the academy's new Under-21s lead while Paul McShane - who officially retired from playing at the end of last season - comes in as his assistant.

The report adds that Martin Drury joins the academy set-up from Bradford City to oversee the Under-15s, while Adam Lawrence arrives as the new interim head of player development and coaching for players at Under-14 to Under-16 level.

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