Everton have added former Southport manager Gary Brabin to their Academy staff.

Brabin, a midfielder in his playing days, will join the pool of coaches tasked with working with the 14 to 18 age groups.

Raised in Liverpool, the 44-year-old had spells at Doncaster Rovers, Blackpool and Hull City in a 19-year career before taking his first steps into management with Welsh club The New Saints.

Further spells at Southport, Cambridge United and Luton Town followed, with the highlight being a Conference Play-Off final appearance with the Us during a season after which he was named Manager of the Year.

Brabin will now work with the Blues academy in aiding the development of the Club's youngsters.

Gary Brabin has today 05/05/2015 left Everton's Academy to take up the vacant managerial position at Tranmere Rovers.

Brabin's appointment at Prenton Park comes after Micky Adams left Rovers last month and he will be tasked with immediately returning the Wirral club to the Football League following their relegation from League Two.

Everyone at Everton wishes Gary the very best of luck in his new role.