Bristol Rovers boss Ben Garner has bolstered his coaching staff with the appointment of Chelsea academy coach Jack Mesure.
The 32-year-old has been named the Pirates' assistant manager as the Gas prepare to return to training ahead of the new season.
Mesure began his professional coaching career at Crystal Palace, where he worked alongside Garner in the academy.
Like Garner, he rose through the age groups at Selhurst Park to coach the under-23s, honing the talents of Wilfried Zaha, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Gas striker James Daly.
Mesure was then snapped up by Chelsea in 2018, working with some of the brightest talents in the country.
"I'm so excited to get started at this great club," he told Rovers' website.
"The manager has told me so many positive things about Rovers, the plans moving forwards, the people at the club and the fans.
"I hope everyone associated with the club is safe and well following this lockdown period and I cannot wait for the first game in front of the Gasheads.
"I look forward to seeing you all at the Memorial Stadium."
The appointment will not affect the roles of Garner's backroom staff. Kevin Maher – who has been linked with the vacant manager's job at Southend United – and Adrian Tucker will continue as first-team coach and goalkeeping coach respectively.
Lee Mansell will also offer support as development squad manager.
"I'm absolutely delighted to be able to bring Jack to the club," Garner said.
"He is someone I have known for a long time and worked very closely with previously.
"We share very similar beliefs and ideas about the game plus Jack also has the personal values and characteristics that will enhance the strong staff structure that we already have in place.
"Jack is an outstanding coach. He is passionate about what we are trying to build here at Rovers and his work ethic, dedication, and expertise will help us on that journey.
"I would like to thank Neil Bath and Chelsea for their cooperation in us being able to appoint Jack ahead of the 2020/2021 season."
