EX-CLARET Ashley Hoskin has been appointed as Burnley’s new development and reserve team coach.

The former winger will take charge of the second string as well as the club’s newly formed development squad, which aims to fast-track promising apprentices and prepare young professionals for first team action.

Hoskin, who himself came through the youth system at Turf Moor, steps up from his position as skills and technical coach, and under 14s manager with the Clarets’ centre of excellence.

The 42-year-old will be working daily with a squad of around 12 players, initially including second-year professionals Chris Lynch, Nik Kudiersky, Chris Anderson, Alex-Ray Harvey and Wes Fletcher, as well as first-year pros Dominic Knowles and Michael King.

Some of the younger members of Laws’ first-team squad are also likely to be involved, along with one or two of the most progressive members of the Clarets’ youth squad working under Terry Pashley and Andy Farrell.

Hoskin, 42, said: “I have been involved with the club on and off since I was 14 so I am absolutely delighted to be offered this position.

“The gaffer came through the youth system here and so did I so it would be fantastic if I could help get two or three more young players into the first-team.”

Burnley manager Brian Laws added: “This is one of the most important roles in the football club.

“Historically, Burnley Football Club has had a wonderful reputation for producing young talent and bringing them into the fold.

“This area will need to be strong and hand-picking the right person was essential to work with the young players to ensure a smooth transition.

“And we want this transition not only to be smooth, but also a rapid one so that these players become available for the first team.

“Therefore, an internal appointment was an important part of the process because we have excellent support staff here.

“I would personally like to wish Ashley all the very best in this role. I have confidence in his ability and we look forward to seeing the fruits of his labours.”

Hoskin made over 100 appearances for Burnley between 1985 and 1989 and since retiring has coached within the Clarets’ centre of excellence for the past 12 years.

Qualified to UEFA ‘A’ licence level, also had a spell on the coaching staff at Accrington Stanley and then returned to Turf Moor in a full-time capacity in January, 2008.