Thelwell appointed Elite Coach Developer by FA

Thelwell, who was our guest on Episode #57 of the TGG Podcast, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the FA at such an exciting time, and to get the chance to help take coaching excellence in this country to the next level.

“I know there is a real desire at St George’s Park to step up the support for homegrown coaches at all levels and to give them the tools they need to complement their day-to-day roles.

“Succession planning and elite coach development will be an essential part of my remit, and it is vital that we also work with the talented coaches within our own pathway. I hope to build on my strong relationships across the game, and work with clubs and all our key partners for everyone’s benefit.”

Ashworth added: “I’m very happy that Kevin is going to bring to St George’s Park his considerable experience of working within elite clubs, from training ground to boardroom.

“We want to do more to help the pipeline of homegrown coaches, and his insight will play a pivotal role in helping them to fulfil their potential while ensuring clubs at home and abroad see them as options when recruiting.

“There has been some outstanding work across the game to further the development of homegrown players over the last ten years, and there is no reason why this should not be possible too with our coaches – working in partnership across the English game.

“There are already elite coaches setting the standard, and in Kevin we have the right person to ensure we are doing all we can to support others and, in turn, help our England teams in future.”

Thelwell played professionally for Shrewsbury Town before becoming Academy Manager at Preston, Derby and Wolves. He secured a grounding in coach education and talent identification during six years with the Football Association of Wales.

Thelwell went on to become Sporting Director at Wolves, Head of Sport at New York Red Bulls, Director of Football at Everton and Sporting Director at Rangers. The latter role was tumultuous and he departed in November last year.