Kaine Challen has been installed as Head Coach at Norwich United in a brand new position for 2017/2018 season. Last week confirmation was given that the club would have a new U21 side in the Thurlow Nunn First Division, providing the club with two senior division sides.

This week the club moved quickly to secure Kaine Challen after his contract with Wroxham was not renewed at the end of last season. Challen had previously held roles with both their reserves and first team, before being deemed surplus to requirements in a new look management set up at Trafford Park. This despite overseeing the transition of a number of talented youth players into Ryman League football.

The new Head Coach role will see Challen take first team coach duties, match day management of the U21’s and be responsible of all player recruitment and development from 18 to 21 years. The role will be supported by Youth Development Officer Harry Diggens.

First team manager Steve Eastaugh said of the appointment ‘We are so pleased to have Kaine join the staff team here at Plantation Park, he had a number of options to manage senior sides, but felt the role here was the right next step for him. This new position will help the football club continue to develop young talent and give players opportunities. He has empathy, patience, a winning mentality and his track record is excellent.’

Challen will be in post for the first day of pre season on July 1.