Man Utd sign 35-year-old Tom Huddlestone on free transfer to be player-coach of Under-21 team

MANCHESTER UNITED have completed the signing of Tom Huddlestone.

The midfielder, 35, has signed on a player-coach and is set to join United's under-21 side.

Huddlestone shared his delight at joining United, writing on : "Over the moon to announce I have been given the opportunity at this amazing football club to help coach and develop the next generation of talent coming through the system.

"Grateful and honoured, now time to give back to the younger generation #MUFC."

Huddlestone will provide a wealth of experience, making 582 senior appearances for the likes of Tottenham, Derby and Hull.

He also has four England caps to his name and could have an important role to play on and off the pitch for United's youngsters.

The Red Devils have several promising talents in the Under-21s, including midfielders Charlie Savage, Zidane Iqbal and Hannibal Mejbri.

That trio have all made first-team appearances and Huddlestone will be responsible for furthering their development this season.

Huddlestone succeeds Paul McShane in the player-coach role and Head of Academy Nick Cox is delighted to have him on board.

Cox told United's media team: "We are really pleased to add both Tom and David [Hughes] to our team of best-in-class coaching experts working across the Professional Development Phase.

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“The innovative approach that we took in appointing a playing coach last season was a real success and brought a range of benefits to the whole Academy.

“Tom is a superb candidate to take on this important role. Having played at the highest level during his outstanding career and already displayed excellent capabilities as a coach, his presence will benefit our players immeasurably."