Arsenal appoint Adam Birchall to replace Jack Wilshere as U18s coach

Academy boss Per Mertesacker acclaims Birchall

Arsenal have announced Adam Birchall has become the club's U18s head coach following Jack Wilshere’s departure.

Academy Manager, Per Mertesacker, hailed Birchall, saying: “Adam has a wealth of experience at Arsenal, having worked at every phase of our Academy, most recently as our U17s head coach and U18s assistant coach.

"He is a highly-qualified and highly-skilled individual who will transition into his new role effortlessly.

“Having played for our Academy and coached here for almost 10 years, Adam is a key member of the Arsenal family. 

"We are confident that Adam will lead this important age group in a forward-thinking, exciting and energetic way.”

Adam, who has played a key role in the development of our U18s since joining the Arsenal academy coaching staff more than two years ago, will step up from his role as U18s assistant coach with immediate effect.

An experienced youth coach, Adam’s long association with the club dates back to his days as a scholar in the academy in 2001-02, when he played alongside, among others, Justin Hoyte and Sebastian Larsson.

He went on to enjoy a respected playing career, before rejoining Arsenal in July 2016 as U18s assistant coach.

The club said in a statement: "We wish Adam all the best in his new role as our U18s head coach."