Bristol Rovers are delighted to announce the appointment of Brian Dutton as the club’s new Academy Manager.
It marks a return to the fold for Brian, who was at the club previously, where he worked with former manager Darrell Clarke, first as an U23 assistant coach, before progressing to first-team coach. His final role was assisting Graham Coughlan, when Clarke left his position in 2018.
More recently, Brian, 36, was interim manager of Walsall before they appointed Matt Taylor last season.
He said: “I am delighted to be back. I can see the vision and the plans for the club from Tom Gorringe and I am excited about the future.
"The first-team are making great strides on the pitch and my aim is to bring younger players through to enhance that progress. I haven't been down to The Quarters yet but I'm looking forward to seeing first-hand the wonderful new facilities that we now have.
"There'll be things for me to tweak and alter and I can't wait to get started."
Dutton's playing career took in 16 clubs, including Harrogate, Weymouth and four years at Salisbury City between 2010 and 2014.
Club CEO Gorringe said: "We are delighted that Brian is re-joining the club and that he is fully committed to the new role. Brian is passionate about supporting the progression of young players into first-team competitive football.
"He understands the club and is fully committed to driving the Academy to the next level attracting the best possible talent, giving them the best possible coaching and, ultimately, giving them the best possible chance of a career within the game, hopefully in our first team.
"Alongside our existing management team within the Academy, I am sure that Brian will continue to drive standards to help us become one of the best academies within the region.”
Club owner Wael Al-Qadi said: "Brian is someone that I’ve known for a long time. I’ve always been impressed with his approach and his ability to develop young players. I know he will help improve the standards within our academy and help our young players reach their potential. We are delighted to have Brian on board and I’m sure you’ll join me in wishing him all the best in his new role.”
Dutton replaces former Academy Manager Chris Hargreaves, who left his position last month.
Watch our first interview with Brian HERE.