Academy: Several Staff Changes Confirmed

Watford FC Academy can confirm the following staff changes for the 2022/23 campaign.

Gary Phillips has joined as the new Academy Head of Goalkeeping, following the departure of Graham Stack.

The former Barnet and Brentford shot-stopper arrives with a plethora of experience having coached at Crystal Palace for the last 10 years with the first-team and Academy.

Phillips has more than 350 league and cup appearances to his name as a player, and has previously coached at the likes of Queens Park Rangers, Southend United, Stevenage and Colchester United, as well as the Eagles.

In addition, Charlie Daniels has taken the vacant Under-18 Lead Coach post after Tom Hart left in the summer.

The former Bournemouth full-back has been involved with the Academy for more than a year and is excited to continue his work with the Under-18s.

Speaking after a 2-1 victory against Wigan Athletic, Daniels said: “I’m really enjoying working with the Under-18s. Ever since I came in, everyone at the club has made me feel really welcome and I learned a lot from Tom [Hart] before he departed.

“I feel like I’m now ready to take it on as my first full-time role. I’ve been really pleased with how it has worked out, how the players have responded to my sessions, the way I want them to play and how I want them to improve as players.”

Joining Daniels in the Under-18 coaching set-up is Armand Kavaja, who becomes Assistant Coach.

The experienced coach has worked with the current crop of first-year scholars in younger age groups, and previously served as Head Coach for Watford FC Women.

On the staff updates, Academy Director Richard Johnson said: “We are all excited about the crop of talent we have within our Academy ranks. Gary Phillips comes with a wealth of experience, and we’ve all been delighted to welcome him to the team.

“Charlie Daniels has a great rapport with the players, which was developed while he was working in a part-time role, and the knowledge he has gained during a very successful playing career will be invaluable for the team. With Armand Kavaja there as well, there is plenty of know-how within the Under-18s set-up.

“There have also been a few other Academy appointments. Rhianna Farr has joined as Lead Professional Development Phase Analyst, having spent time at Brighton and Hove Albion and been a major part of the European success with the Lionesses this summer. Ben Day has also come in as a Youth Development Phase/Foundation Phase Analyst.

“Finally, we’ve welcomed Andrew Griffiths as the Head of Education following the departure of Martin Prickett, and Jonathan Reid has joined as the Academy Player Care and Welfare Officer.”