Former Telford player Gareth Jennings proud to be Stoke City academy director

Jennings' career in football comes full circle as he returns to the club where he began as a player in the 1980's.

During his playing days, he also had spells with Hednesford and Stafford Rangers.

Jennings is widely respected in youth development across the league spectrum, having had two spells with the Foxes as well as successful periods with Oxford United and Bristol City.

"I was brought up in Staffordshire, in Rugeley to be precise, and my parents still live in the county so I've strong ties with the area and the club," said Jennings.

"I was here as a young player. I signed as a schoolboy before turning professional and have always had an affinity with the Club - so much so that the chance to come back was too good an opportunity to turn down.

"I was in a similar role at Leicester and although they won the Premier League title last season and are playing Champions League football, I was still drawn towards Stoke City ...it was too much to resist."