Newcastle United academy coach Robbie Stockdale(Image: Newcastle United via Getty Images)
Newcastle United have confirmed that Robbie Stockdale will become the club's permanent Under-21 manager at Little Benton.
United were rocked by the departure of Adam Lawrence earlier this season when Academy boss Steve Harper pleaded with the ex-Man United youth coach to stay. Stockdale had been in contention to take the second string job earlier in the season before Harper choase Lawrence, but the ex-Middlesbrough star has now won the job after recent good form.
A club statement read: "United’s Under - 21s have suffered just one defeat in their previous six games during his time in charge, with the Young Magpies looking to secure a play -off spot with a top - 16 Premier League 2 finish.
"After leaving Rochdale, Stockdale went on to become assistant manager at Hull City, MK Dons, Gillingham and Barrow before joining United initially as assistant Under - 21 Lead Coach in February 2025.
On being named [Newcastle United](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/newcastle-united-fc) Under - 21 Lead C oach , Stockdale said: "It’s a real privilege to take on this role on a permanent basis.
"I’ve loved working with the players and staff over the last year and I’m proud of the progress the group has made.
“It’s a fantastic environment to be part of and I’m looking forward to continuing the work we’ve started and helping our young players take the next steps on their journey towards first-team football."
Despite the arrival of Ross Wilson, the club's Academy has not made any major tweaks in personnel since he was appointed. Harper and Stockdale are longstanding members of the backroom team.
Harper says: “Robbie has been an excellent addition to the Academy since joining and we’re looking forward to supporting him as he continues to develop in this role .
“He has amassed a wealth of playing and coaching experience that he passes on to our
young players every day, and he has built an outstanding relationship with the group .
"They respond to him, trust him and understand the standards he sets .
“He has a clear understanding of what the pathway needs to look like for our players to progress into a first -team environment, and he works extremely well with staff across the football club to support that journey.”
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