OWEN SEEKS NEW CHALLENGE IN GAME

Gareth Owen is set to depart his role as Stoke City’s Academy Director to seek a new challenge within the game.

Owen, who was appointed to the position in 2019, will leave the Club in late September.

With the process to recruit his successor now set to get underway, Owen will spend the coming weeks overseeing a transition.

“I would like to sincerely thank all the players, staff, parents and fans for supporting the Academy during my tenure and for making my time at the Club so enjoyable,” said the 40-year-old.

“I have been immensely proud of the achievements of all players that have represented the Club, and in particular to have played a part in the development of the likes of Nathan Collins, Will Forrester, Tommy Simkin, Emre Tezgel and Nathan Lowe amongst others. I hope to see plenty of similar success stories during the coming years.

“There have been many experiences across the age groups down the years that will live long in my memory; from the U12s taking Real Madrid to penalties, to memorable U15s and U18s victories over Manchester United last season.

“After ten years at Stoke, I am seeking a new challenge in the game, but will do everything possible between now and the end of September to help the Club prepare for the future.”

Himself a product of the Potters’ youth system, Owen enjoyed a 288-game playing career with Stoke, Oldham Athletic, Stockport County and Port Vale.

He initially returned to the Potters as Under 12s Coach in 2013 before progressing through the Academy coaching ranks to his current role.

“After around a decade here at Stoke, Gareth has expressed a desire to seek a new adventure within the game,” said the Club’s Technical Director Ricky Martin.

“He will do so with our sincere thanks and – by continuing in his role for the next few months – Gareth can ensure that services to our young players are not disrupted during the period of transition.

“The process to identify his successor will now commence and we are confident of attracting an outstanding candidate to the Club in this exciting and hugely important role.”