Southern returns to Fleetwood as U21 Lead

Fleetwood Town have appointed Keith Southern as their new Under-21 Lead, bringing him back to Highbury after his exit as Everton's U18s Head Coach.

Southern’s exit came as part of a wider shake-up of Everton’s youth set-up and ended a nine-and-a-half-year spell at the club.

His move to Fleetwood reunites him with a club where he made 39 appearances during his playing career.

The former midfielder made more than 370 Football League and Premier League appearances, the majority at Blackpool, where he was Man of the Match in the 2010 Championship Play-Off Final as the Seasiders won promotion to the Premier League.

Speaking after his appointment, Southern said: “I’m really excited and delighted to be here. I’ve already had the chance to meet everybody this morning and it’s been a brilliant welcome. I’m looking forward to getting started, working with the players and staff, and helping the young lads develop as both footballers and people.”

Academy Manager Danny Morville said the club were “delighted” to bring Southern back.

“He brings a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach,” Morville said. “His knowledge will be invaluable to our young players as they continue to develop. Keith’s commitment to youth development, combined with his understanding of the game, make him an outstanding addition to our Academy and we are confident that he will be integral to the development of players across the Professional Development Phase.”