Mark Jackson has joined the Central Coast Mariners as football manager.
The Englishman most recently managed Milton Keynes Dons, having developed as a coach through his time at Leeds United.
After a playing career spanning more than 15 years which included stints with Leeds and Scunthorpe United while also playing four times for the Under-20s English National Team, Jackson moved into football management.
Initially joining Leeds as an under-15s coach, Jackson worked his way through the ranks, achieving extremely strong results across the club’s academy system.
He took over the head coach role for the newly promoted U23s team as they moved into the Premier League 2 Division 2, earning promotion in his first campaign with the squad.
This success saw him move into the role of first team coach of Leeds United under Jesse Marsch, a position he held until opting to move to Milton Keynes Dons as the head coach.
Jackson spent six months with the club before leaving to join the Mariners.
He has the endorsement of former head coach Nick Montgomery.
Mariners Sporting Director Matt Simon said Jackson would be a fantastic addition to the club.
“After the very first conversation we had with Mark, it was very clear he is the right person to lead the club into the future,” Simon said.
“His experience and track record with youth development was a standout and fits in with exactly what we want to continue to do at the club.”
Mariners Chairman Richard Peil said Jackson would fit seamlessly into the community and was a great cultural fit for the club.
Jackson said he was proud and extremely excited to be joining the Mariners.
“To be a part of a club with a community and family feel, that wants youth players to come in … is really nice,” he said.
“I want to play front-foot football and dominate every part of the game.
“That is my philosophy, that is how I want my teams to play, and that is what I will bring to the Central Coast.
“The club is in a fantastic position, so I want to continue that good work and help the club grow and continue to move forward.”
Source:
Central Coast Mariners
We wish Mark every success in his new role with the Mariners.