Fletcher and Connell to take on U21 & U18 roles

Following Stephen Purches’ step up into the Cherries’ first-team coaching set-up in February, Fletcher moves from his role with the under-18s to become under-21s manager.

Fletcher – who previously captained the club as a player – told afcb.co.uk what the position means to him and gave his aims for the future.

“I have a strong affiliation with the club and I’m delighted to take on the role,” he said.

“It’s great for my development to come into the role and try to become a better coach. I was with the under-18s for three years and feel I did well.

“I’m looking forward to the different challenges the role will bring and to increase the development of the players going forwards.

“I’ve worked with the majority of the players at the younger level and now the job for them and for me is to push on as far as possible.”

After taking temporary charge of the under-21s in the latter part of last season, Mark Molesley will now resume his role of assistant manager.

Moving into the position of under-18s manager is Alan Connell, promoted from his previous role within the club’s Academy.

The former Cherries forward spoke about the move, saying: “We had an Academy meeting recently where the plans for moving forwards and the changes to be made were discussed.

“Happily, I was offered the role with the under-18s which I was very pleased to accept.

“I’ve had a long association with the club and it’s a real honour to take on this position. It means a lot to me and I will work 24/7 to be successful

with the players at under-18 level.”

Connell will be assisted by Graham Mills in the under-18s set-up.

Meanwhile, Joe Roach will remain in his role as AFC Bournemouth’s Head of Academy.

Roach was due to leave the club at the end of the 2016/17 campaign but the long-serving coach will now stay in his post to ensure the Academy continues to progress in line with the club’s aims and ambitions.