Steve Harper has been confirmed as Newcastle United’s new Academy manager. Harper stepped in on a caretaker basis at the end of last season after the departure of long-serving youth system chief Joe Joyce. However, the arrangement has now been made permanent by the Magpies ahead of the 2021/22 season. The former United goalie holds a UEFA ‘A’ Licence, UEFA ‘A’ Goalkeeping Licence and a Masters of Sports Directorship degree.
A club statement underlined his new role and read: “After being named as interim academy manager in Spring 2021, Harper has now made the position permanent and will spearhead the club’s youth operations as it identifies and develops the region’s best young footballing talent in preparation for the first team.”
After being appointed
Steve Harper said: “I’m delighted to take up the position as academy manager on a permanent basis and have enjoyed every day in the role so far. I’m passionate about our club and to lead our Academy is an honour and a privilege. The club, head coach and all the staff have been fantastic, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their support. We want to help our young people to become better players and have a successful career in the game. Equally importantly, we are developing them as people, instilling them with the right values to support their onward journeys. The Academy provides them with wonderful opportunities on and off the pitch and I’m excited to be working with a great team to drive our Academy forwards for the benefit of everyone involved.”
Newcastle United’s managing director,
Lee Charnley, said: “Steve is a great fit for the position of academy manager. He has served Newcastle United as a player, coach and ambassador fantastically over the years and will use his passion for our club to further develop the Academy. His experiences on and off the pitch and his knowledge of the club bring a unique perspective to the role and will be of great benefit to all involved with the Academy.”
