CITY'S Academy today confirmed the appointment of a new Education and Welfare Officer, Ben Smith.

Smith, 30, has started his duties with the Club having previously worked with Luton Town before moving into mainstream education.

He's now back in football in a role which will include overseeing the academic and social development of youngsters progressing through the Norwich City Academy structure. As part of his role he will work closely with City's educational partner Easton College and he will also take on coaching duties with the Under-15s.

Smith told First News: "It's something I wasn't expecting, to come back into football, but obviously I'm delighted to be joining Norwich City and really looking forward to the challenge."

The position is a mandatory one the Club must fill in order to continue to qualify for Academy status but Academy Manager Ricky Martin said he was pleased to have landed Smith for this crucial post: "This is a vital area of the Academy ensuring the holistic development of all our players remains the focal point. I am confident that Ben will settle quickly into his new position and will become a major part of our young player's development and progress."