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Tom Huddlestone is appointed Manchester United U21 player-coach - after former Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy joined Erik ten Hag's coaching staff at the weekend

Tom Huddlestone is joining Manchester United as a player-coach for the club's U21s.

The 35-year old midfielder had been playing at Hull City up until the end of last season and will use his vast experience to help mentor United's youngsters as they look to develop into first-team players.

United used a similar initiative last season when they brought in defender Paul McShane, who has since been promoted to full-time player development phase coach.

Tom Huddlestone (above) is joining Manchester United as a player-coach for the club's U21s
The former Tottenham and England midfielder left Championship side Hull City this summer

The proposed involvement of former England international Huddlestone is seen as vital by academy manager Nick Cox, who wants the younger United stars to tap into the midfielder's experience as they take their next steps.