Steve Davis says talented coach Collins needed to step up into the first-team group
James Collins’ promotion into the first-team coaching role is a natural progression for the talented coach, according to boss Steve Davis. Collins will now work solely with the first-team squad, having previously been a massive part of the Academy structure.
Alex Morris will replace him as Under-21 Development coach and our former club captain Kenny Lunt will take charge of the Under-18 group alongside the newly appointed Lee Bell as his assistant.
Collins juggled the two roles last season as he stepped up into the first-team role alongside Davis and Neil Baker. Collins, who is a UEFA A qualified coach, will assist Davis with all aspects of coaching and tactical preparation.
Steve told crewealex.net: “James stepping up into the first team was a natural progression. That would have always been the plan going forward and we would have loved to had Neil Critchley still here as well because he would have been involved in that too.
“It is important to promote from within the club and James has been in the Academy for many years. He is a very good coach and he knows what this Football Club is all about. He knows the players and has a real passion for the club.
“It is a straight forward progression. He is ready and although it will be challenging along the way, he is well equipped to handle it and grow from the experience.”