Everton have confirmed Leighton Baines has rejoined the club as a coach.
Baines retired at the end of the previous season, following his final appearance in a Blues shirt during the 3-1 reversal to Bournemouth.
Discussions subsequently took place between the former England international and the Goodison Park hierarchy about a non-playing role.
It has now emerged that Baines will become Professional Development Coach, working with youth players at first-team, under-18 and u23 level.
In line with the 35-year-old’s return to his boyhood club, current under-23 coach David Unsworth has been promoted to Everton’s Director of Academy.
The ex-defender will continue to oversee his existing duties with the u23s, where he has led the side to dual Premier League 2 titles during his tenure.
He said: “I’m honoured and privileged by this opportunity and hugely excited by the opportunities this role will provide.
“This club is in my blood – and youth development is in this club’s DNA. Being able to work with the academy staff to shape the development pathway for the young players in the academy is incredibly exciting.
“I know I speak for us all when I say there is no prouder moment than seeing young, homegrown progress into our under-23s and, ultimately, into our first team.
“It is absolutely brilliant to have Leighton join us in this new and exciting role. Leighton has impressed us greatly in our discussions since he made his decision to retire from playing and we’re all thrilled to have him on board.
“He has tremendous recent experience which will help us ensure our young players are best-equipped to progress through each stage of their journey, both as players and as young men.”