Darren Edmondson appointed as Rochdale AFC’s Head of Academy Coaching

Darren Edmondson

Darren Edmondson has been named as Rochdale AFC's new Head of Academy Coaching.

Edmondson takes over the role from Rick Ashcroft, who has left Dale to join a Premier League club.

The 46-year-old has most recently been at Carlisle United, where he was academy manager.

Edmondson is a former professional footballer, who started his career at the Cumbrians and went on to make over 200 appearances for them during a seven-year spell.

He also played for Huddersfield Town, Plymouth Argyle, York City, Chester City, Barrow and Workington Town during a 23-year career.

In addition, he managed Barrow for a near two-year stint, leading them to the National League North title during the 2014/15 season.

“I’m really excited,” said Edmondson.

“We have a young manager here who has a great enthusiasm to take the football club forward with youth at the core of it. From a youth team and an Academy point of view, it is great to see a football club that is ready and is accepting of youth and wants to put them and let them do what they can do. It’s what other clubs should aspire to be.

“I’ve watched a couple of Academy training sessions already and the enthusiasm is excellent. There’s already a lot of good detail being given players which is great, and it obviously makes my job a lot easier.

“Rick, who was doing the job previously, has got a good structure in place already. I’m looking carry on the good work that Rick has been doing and then put my stamp onto things.”