Martin replaces Friend as Bristol Rovers Director of Football

Prior to joining Stoke, Martin had been Academy Manager at West Ham for four years and had worked for Norwich City for almost 16 years, rising to become their Academy Manager and Technical Director.

Although Martin joins Bristol Rovers immediately, Friend will remain until the end of the season to ensure “a smooth transition of football operations.”

Friend said: “After careful consideration, I have decided to step down from my role as Director of Football at the end of the season.

“I am proud of the improvements we have achieved together in developing the club’s staffing infrastructure, alongside a sustainable and exciting game model, while the plans for upgraded training ground and stadium facilities promise to further elevate Bristol Rovers in the years to come.

“The club has a strong foundation with an excellent Head Coach in Iñigo Calderón, a core group of talented players and promising, young, homegrown talent who have been firmly integrated into the first-team environment. 

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Board, the staff, the players, and our fans for their support during my time as Director Of Football. I look forward to seeing how the Club continues to develop and I wish Ricky every success when he takes over the role following a handover period.

“Thank you once again to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Up The Gas!”

Martin added: “It is a privilege to join Bristol Rovers as Director Of Football. This club has so much potential and the work done so far by the Chairman, the Board, George and the wider team has established a stable platform for us to build on moving forward.

“It’s an exciting time to be joining Rovers. The first-team playing squad includes many young, exciting players who are still growing to reach their full potential, while the impressive work done by the Academy has allowed players like Jed Ward and Kofi Shaw to step into and thrive in that environment.

“The plans for development and growth on both the football and the operational sides of the club are also impressive, and I hope my skill set can be of help and benefit to Bristol Rovers as we strive to take this club to the next level and beyond.

“Of course, immediate attention is on the final few weeks of the season and, with seven games left to play, our collective focus must be to pick up as many points as possible and steer ourselves up the League One table.

“I am looking forward to working closely with everyone at the club, particularly with George as we complete a full and detailed handover in the coming weeks.”