AFC Fylde director football wants to build upon the Coasters’ successful season
AFC Fylde have announced James Keyworth as the new director of football at Mill Farm.
Keyworth joined the club in March, succeeding Stewart Mairs who joined Walsall a month ago after a year with the Coasters.
He has been working across recruitment, academy development and first-team planning as the men prepare for life back in the National League top flight after promotion and the ladies reflect on a league and cup double.
“This is a brilliant time to be a part of AFC Fylde,” Keyworth said.
“The first-team squad, led by Craig (Mahon, head coach), Alex (Kenyon, assistant head coach) and Chris (goalkeeping coach), have had an outstanding season.
“Winning the league with 100 points whilst playing with an attacking and entertaining style doesn’t happen by accident.
“It is the result of committing to a clear footballing identity and making that central to everything we do.
“My job now is to help us build on that foundation, ensuring our recruitment, player development and performance analysis all reflect that identity, with the club’s DNA and playing philosophy at the heart of every decision.
“I’ve been hugely impressed by what Danny Murphy (women’s boss) and the women’s team have achieved this season.
“Going unbeaten throughout the league campaign and winning the county cup is a remarkable achievement and a real statement of intent to go on and challenge again next season.
“The facilities, infrastructure and academy we have at Mill Farm give us an elite platform that most clubs at our level simply don’t have.
“Developing the academy pathway and making sure it feeds directly into the first team vision is one of my priorities.”