Former Sunderland skipper Grant Leadbitter has been appointed to a coaching role within Middlesbrough's academy setup. Leadbitter is a boyhood Sunderland fan who came through the academy system on Wearside, beginning his career with the Black Cats before later returning to end his playing days with the club.
In between, he spent a spell at Ipswich and a lengthy stint at Boro. He hung up his boots last summer and worked to earn his UEFA A licence, and has now been appointed as individual development coach at Rockliffe Park where he will work with Boro's academy players and coaches.
Boro academy manager Craig Liddle said: "It's great to have someone with Grant's experience on board. He's worked hard on his coaching qualifications over the past year and he brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding.
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"He's an example for the young players in our academy because of what he achieved in his career and he knows what it takes to be a good professional."
Leadbitter, who is a fan favourite on Wearside, made his debut for the Black Cats in 2003 before leaving in 2009. He spent three years at Ipswich before joining Boro in 2012, and then re-signed for Sunderland in January 2019 to spend the final two-and-a-half years of his career - and helping the club win the EFL Trophy at Wembley in 2020 - there before hanging up his boots last summer.
He made 210 appearances in all competitions during his two spells at Sunderland, and scored 18 goals.
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