Elliott excited to be named Head of St Pat’s Academy

FORMER Ireland international Stephen Elliott is the new Head of Football Academy at St Patrick’s Athletic.

Working closely with the newly appointed Director of Football Ger O’Brien and the clubs existing Club and Academy staff, Stephen in his new full-time role will also lead the U20s as Head Coach.

The former striker made over 300 professional appearances during his 15- year career, with Manchester City, Sunderland, Wolves, Preston North End, Hearts and Drogheda United.

Elliott, who holds a UEFA A Licence, joins St Pat’s from EFL club Fleetwood Town, where he was Lead Coach of their U15 and U16 teams.

Speaking on St Patrick’s Athletic Youtube channel, Stephen said: “I’m delighted to be here.

“When I spoke to the club and Garrett Kelleher (Chairman) about the possibility of coming in, it really intrigued me.

“Then once I chatted to Ger O’Brien (Director of Football) and Alan Mathews (Technical Director and Board Member) about what the role involved, it really got my juices flowing.

“I’m really excited about coming in and helping an already successful Academy thrive.

“You only have to look at the FAI Cup final last year and the number of St Patrick’s Athletic Academy players on the pitch at the end of the game, I think it was six in total, from Jamie Lennon to Mason Melia, which tells you there is a clear pathway here for young players to progress and have careers with us.

“If I can come in and help to improve something that is already brilliant, it is exciting for everybody.”