View: Tottenham Academy dealt a potential blow as Chris Powell exit news emerges
The club’s academy could be in some trouble as rumours swirl that talented coach Chris Powell has left Tottenham.
In 2020, the 53-year-old was named director of youth development at Hotspur Way and the role has seen him lead the coaching and development of all age groups from Under-17s to Under-21s. Powell has therefore had a big hand in the progress of many of the club’s youngsters during this time.
He has even played a part in the first-team set-up, as a member of Ryan Mason’s backroom staff on the two separate occasions that the former Spurs midfielder has taken over as the club’s interim manager. Firstly, at the back end of the 2020/21 season after Jose Mourinho was sacked and more recently, during the previous campaign’s run-in.
And now the former Huddersfield Town manager has reportedly left his role at the North London club, according to The Times’ chief football writer Henry Winter, who shared the update via Twitter (1 August).
Powell began his journey in coaching after retiring as a professional footballer back in 2010, following a playing career that saw him make 667 appearances over the course of 23 years.
During his time as a player, he played predominantly for both Southend United and Charlton Athletic while also enjoying stints at current Premier League sides Crystal Palace and West Ham. Powell has used that vast experience to transition into a successful 13-year career as a coach so far.
He has spent time with England intermittently as a part of Gareth Southgate’s coaching staff since 2019, a role that has seen him attend several major tournaments.
Powell is clearly a talented coach and Spurs will be frustrated to see him leave as changes continue to be made at the club following the departure of sporting director Fabio Paratici earlier this year.
The arrival of Ange Postecoglou should see more opportunities provided to the club’s academy prospects with the Australian possessing an impressive track record of developing young talent at his previous clubs.
He will therefore be hoping that the person who replaces Powell will be able to work alongside him successfully and help implement his vision at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
As for Powell, wherever he ends up, he will certainly make a massive contribution to his next club.
In other Tottenham News, Paul Robinson has given his exclusive view on the status of a midfielder ahead of next season.