Goddard honoured to be named new head coach of Cobblers U18s

Shane Goddard says he feels 'proud' and 'privileged' to be named the new permanent head coach of Cobblers U18s.

Goddard had taken over from new first-team boss Jon Brady on a temporary basis midway through the season but will now do the role permanently.

"It's a privilege to get this opportunity," said Goddard. "My connection with this club stretches back more than just my employment.

"I came to my first game in 1994 and I've been a season ticket holder for many years so I'm really proud and determined to do well in the job.

"There's a pathway for coaches here and I think it's important to show there are coaching opportunities and there is a route to success at this club if you work hard - that's something to be proud of."

Liam Cross, Josh Flanagan and Max Dyche are the latest three youngsters to sign professional deals having worked their way through the youth ranks.

"It's great to see those boys sign professional deals and they deserve a lot of credit and so do their families and the coaches who have worked with them," continued Goddard.

"I feel privileged to have worked with them at some point along their journey. I think I first came across Max and Liam in the U12s and I went on tour with Josh to Italy with the U16s.

"To see them now at the end of their academy journey and going to the first-team, there's immense pride."

Miguel Ngwa scored a hat-trick as the U18s finished their season with a 3-3 draw against Cambridge United last week.

Looking to the future and the next batch of young talent at Northampton, Goddard added: "The new intake of scholars will have their induction programme this week when they'll come in and we'll explain what it will look like.

"Going from a part-time academy player to a full-time scholar is a big jump so there's a lot of information on that and then they'll get their individual programmes.

"We want to be high energy, in your face and horrible to play against but with good quality. It won't be easy for them but it'll be a journey that we will all go on because we want to make them ready for the rigours of professional football - hopefully they can follow in the footsteps of Josh, Liam and Max."