Manchester United’s evolution behind the scenes has continued with the appointment of Justin Cochrane.
Cochrane is United’s new Head of Player Development and Coaching at academy level, as per Training Ground Guru.
United lagged behind in terms of youth development for a few years after Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure but things are improving now.
United again boast some of the finest young talent in the country and the aim is to have the very best coaches working with them.
Who is the new man?
Cochrane comes with a big reputation.
He is apparently viewed as a rising star of coaching within the FA, having left his role as England’s Under-17 coach to join United.
In April 2018, England boss Gareth Southgate called him a ‘really excellent young coach’.
Last June, he was also namechecked again by Southgate as per the Mirror.
Cochrane has previously held roles with England Under-15s and Under-16s and before that he was Assistant Head of Player and Coach Development at Tottenham for almost nine years.
That means he has huge pedigree and experience working with young players, which can only benefit United, and the Mirror report he has an attack minded philosophy.
Has Cochrane replaced Nicky Butt?
Not directly. Butt stood down in March from his role as head of first-team development.
Cochrane doesn’t have exactly the same job title but it seems he will take on a very similar role.
United’s restructuring which saw John Murtough promoted to football director apparently played a part in Butt’s decision.
It appears Cochrane is happier to work within the structure United have opted for.
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