Wolves looking for a head coach rather than manager

Wolves today announced Dean Saunders' successor will be a head coach rather than manager.

The diversion from the traditional hierarchy to a continental-style format is believed to reflect the growing influence of head of football development and recruitment Kevin Thelwell.

That's as well as a show of strength from chief executive Jez Moxey to implement a new direction going forwards.

It's a blueprint firmly and successfully established at arch rivals Albion over several years under chairman Jeremy Peace.

Moxey said: "The board has decided it wishes to appoint a head coach as opposed to a traditional first-team manager.

"The head coach will be responsible for bringing on-field success to the first team and will work with, and lead, our other football professionals to implement a new football strategy and philosophy for the club as a whole.

"Kevin will be responsible for leading the recruitment process.

"He will carry out the required preparatory work and make recommendations on candidates for the board to consider for interview."

Wolves also now appear to be re-focusing on a concentrated drive to bring through their own players.

Moxey added: "It's vital the recruitment process is successful, we need to find the right person.

"This is an opportunity for us to build a stable foundation on which we hope to create a successful future based on smart recruitment, youth development and attractive football."

Under the new structure, Wolves now appear to be re-focusing on a concentrated drive to bring through their own players.

Thelwell said: "The likes of Danny Batth, David Davis, Jake Cassidy and Aaron McCarey now have a great opportunity now to stake their claim and make a real impact.

"This will be a fundamental part of the club's future strategy."

The new structure has helped firm up the profile of the man Wolves want to take the club forwards.

And Kenny Jackett's solid background and commitment to bringing through young players means he remains a contender.

Thelwell added: "The appointment of a head coach is an appropriate step for us to take and is a model which is already in place and successfully working at a number of other clubs.

"Ultimately, the head coach will have final say on first-team players, but it's my job, to present a range of fully-researched player options."