Latics legend Neil Redfearn has returned to one of his former clubs to take up a youth team role.

The former midfielder, who was recently back at Boundary Park as interim assistant manager to caretaker boss Steve Thompson, has been appointed as Bradford City's lead professional development phase coach.

The ex-Leeds United and Rotherham United boss will take charge of Bradford's Under 19s side.

“It feels really good to be back," said Redfearn, who made 21 appearances for Bradford in their first Premier League season in 1999/2000.

"It is a while since I played here, but this is a fantastic club with a good history of bringing young players through, so it is a great place to be.

“I have got good experience from my time at other clubs in similar roles. We have some fantastic young players on our books and it is a good time to try and bring that talent to the fore, which I am excited to be a part of.

“The experience of having one foot in the academy and another in the first team, as I did at Newcastle United and Leeds United, will help. It is good to have your own identity and always nice to have your own players in the first team."

Speaking Bradford's official website, Redfearn added: “It was only a few weeks ago I was on the grass helping out at Oldham Athletic, and this is a challenge that really excites me. This is a big club in its history and tradition, and we want to give these boys the opportunity to kick on and further their careers."