EX-PRESTON North End gaffer Gary Peters has delighted club bosses by deciding to stay and take on a unique new role.

The 43-year-old becomes Deepdale's new Centre of Excellence Manager with responsibility for developing the youth side of the game.

His appointment this week came after he resigned as first team manager and took four weeks out to consider his future.

North End's Deputy Chairman Derek Shaw said: "We expect Gary to do extremely well with the younger players. "We felt it would've been a waste if he'd left the club."

Peters will be in charge of youngsters aged 9-16, with Youth Scheme Manager Geoff McDougle responsible for players between 16 and 19 years old.

Director Tony Scholes will have overall responsibility for Youth Development. He said: "With the assistance of the FA and the Sports Council we intend to invest significant amounts into our Youth Development Scheme. It's important that we develop home grown talent."

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