Chelsea under-21 coach Andy Myers has taken up a new role as assistant coach at Vitesse, further strengthening the connection between the two clubs.
Myers, who came through the ranks as a defender at Chelsea and made more than 100 appearances in eight years at Stamford Bridge, has signed a one-year contract with Vitesse after watching the Dutch side's friendly match with KV Oostende from the stands in Driel last week.
"I'm looking forward to joining the coaching staff of Vitesse," Myers told the Dutch club's official website. "I know Vitesse and their style of play and I hope to develop together with the staff."
Vitesse technical director Mo Allach added: "We know the players and coaches from Chelsea FC. We are delighted that Andy wants to join us. Andy specialises in educating talents. With the arrival of Andy we have a good mix in our technical staff."
Chelsea enjoy a long-standing relationship with Vitesse and have sent 19 players on loan to GelreDome since 2010, including Nemanja Matic and Bertrand Traore. England under-21 star Lewis Baker and Brazilian youngster Nathan have already agreed to spend the 2016-17 season with the Dutch club.
Andy Myers als assistent-trainer toegevoegd aan technische staf #Vitesse https://t.co/cl4jghR6Ci pic.twitter.com/eDYyr8kGZs
- Vitesse (@MijnVitesse) July 11, 2016
Myers spent eight years in a coaching role within the Chelsea academy, working at the under-15 level before being promoted to assist Dermot Drummy and successor Adi Viveash with the under-19 and under-21 squads. His role will be filled by Ian Howell, another coaching graduate from the younger age groups.
"It is a wonderful opportunity for Andy and we wish him the best of luck," technical director Michael Emenalo told Chelsea's official website. "He has done a fantastic job as an academy coach for the past eight years and now he is able to take the next step forward in his coaching career."
Neil Bath, Chelsea's head of youth development, added: 'This allows us to continue developing our coaching fraternity and supports great career progression for people like Ian Howell, James Simmonds, Ed Brand and Jody Morris [under-18 manager] this season, plus numerous others in the younger age groups."