West Ham United have announced that their former captain Mark Noble will be making his return to the club as a Sporting Director.
Noble is expected to officially start his new role with the Hammers from January 2, 2023.
The 35-year-old who retired as an active footballer earlier this year made 550 senior appearances in the 18 years as a West Ham player.
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“West Ham United is delighted to announce that Mark Noble is to return to the Club in the role of Sporting Director,” part of the statement by Westham read.
In his new role Noble will work closely in support of manager David Moyes, and the board of directors, providing input, advice, and assistance across all aspects of the football operation.
Some of the roles will include Academy development, player recruitment, and player and staff wellbeing.
“Based between our three principal sites at London Stadium, Rush Green and Chadwell Heath, the 35-year-old will also play a key role in supporting the continued football development and ensuring strategic alignment across the Club and the West Ham family, including our partners and supporters at home and across the globe,” the statement highlighted.
Noble had traveled to the United States to complete an Entertainment, Media and Sports Business leadership course at the prestigious Harvard Business School.
In his statement, he noted that the new role would enable him make a real contribution and give back to the Club.
“I’m really happy to be coming back and cannot wait to get started. I would like to thank the Club for giving me the opportunity – it is a great honour for me to take up this role at West Ham United,” part of his statement read.
Noble added that in his last two years as West Ham player when he had less game time, he understood the behind-the-scenes work.
Hammers Manager David Moyes expressed his pleasure to be working again with the former player.
“I am really pleased to welcome Mark back and to have the opportunity to work closely with him again. He was a great asset and strength to me as a player and a captain, and I know he will give the Club and myself fantastic support again in this role.
“I know from my dealings with Mark throughout his time as a player – and particularly when we were going through the hugely challenging COVID-19 pandemic – that he possesses all of the necessary skills and attributes, and the right personality and character, to be a huge success in this role,” Moyes noted.
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