Newcastle U21s Face Scrutiny as Another Coach Resigns
Newcastle United’s under-21 coaching setup has come under scrutiny following the recent resignation of Adam Lawrence. The former Manchester United Under-18s coach left his role just four months after being appointed, highlighting ongoing instability at the club’s youth level.
High Turnover of Coaches
Since Eddie Howe took charge of the first team in November 2021, Newcastle has seen a rapidly changing coaching landscape at the under-21 level. Lawrence’s departure marks the fourth permanent under-21 coach since Howe’s arrival. In total, Newcastle has employed six permanent coaches since 2018, alongside six caretakers.
Coaching Changes Timeline
| Name | Position | Tenure |
|---|---|---|
| Ben Dawson | Permanent | April 2018 – June 2019 |
| Neil Redfearn | Permanent | July 2019 – November 2019 |
| Chris Hogg | Permanent | February 2020 – August 2021 |
| Gary Caldwell | Interim | August 2021 – September 2021 |
| Elliott Dickman | Permanent | October 2021 – December 2022 |
| Ben Dawson | Permanent | January 2023 – July 2024 |
| Diarmuid O’Carroll | Permanent | September 2024 – June 2025 |
| Robbie Stockdale | Interim | July 2025 – August 2025 |
| Adam Lawrence | Permanent | September 2025 – January 2026 |
Uncertain Future for Newcastle U21s
Lawrence’s exit raised eyebrows, coming shortly after a disappointing defeat to Middlesbrough. Sources from the club indicated that the resignation was not due to a fallout or significant event. Meanwhile, Steve Harper, the academy director, emphasized the need for stability within the coaching staff.
Challenges of the Under-21 Role
Lawrence’s performance record was underwhelming, winning only four out of 22 matches during his tenure. His teams scored 34 goals but conceded 58, resulting in a win ratio of 18 percent.
- Win Ratio: 18%
- Loss Ratio: 73%
- Matches: 22
Following Lawrence’s departure, Robbie Stockdale has taken over on an interim basis for the second time. The club is now considering both internal and external coaching candidates, searching for someone who can provide the necessary consistency and long-term vision for the under-21 squad.
Next Steps
Harper acknowledged the need for a thoughtful selection process moving forward, stating that the club is committed to finding a coach capable of fostering growth among young players. He affirmed that all options remain on the table as they move to find the right candidate.
The recent turmoil surrounding Newcastle U21s serves as a reminder of the challenges faced at the youth level. The focus now shifts to stabilizing the coaching situation and supporting the development of future talent.
