NEW Swindon Town U18s boss David Farrell says he can’t wait to get back on the training ground and put the club’s youngsters through their paces.

The 46-year-old, who played for Aston Villa, Wycombe Wanderers and Peterborough United, had previously been U18s and U23s coach with the Posh.

A club reshuffle has seen Farrell been appointed at the Energy Check County Ground, while club hero Alan McLoughlin takes up the reins as Academy Manager.

After leaving his position at Peterborough in January, Farrell says he’s eager to get started when he gets the youngsters in for training on July 1.

“I left Peterborough because I wanted a change. Swindon appealed to me because I like they way they want to bring young players through,” he said.

“Especially getting local boys through, I think that is massive. I wouldn’t be at a club if they weren’t going to go in that direction, I love the fact they want to bring the young lads into the first team.

“I think it is really important for young players to grab their chance when they get it and that they are determined.

“Since I left Peterborough, I’ve just been doing bits and bobs, doing a bit of coaching here or there. If I’m honest, it wasn’t a great deal but I kept my eye in.

“The boys are back on July 1. I meet up with Alan (McLoughlin) next week and we will go through some things, I can’t wait to get back on the training field and enjoy football.”

The former Aston Villa man also says he takes a more holistic view to coaching the footballers of tomorrow, as he explains they need to leave the club with more than just football ability.

After being interviewed by the club, Farrell was pleased to learn that the club are also that way inclined, making it the perfect fit for the 46-year-old.

“It’s also important they aren’t just developed as footballers, they need to be developed as people too,” he said.

“Such a low percentage make it as a professional, and it is crucial they come away with more than football skills.

“If they don’t make it at Swindon, there are loads of chances everywhere else. I want to develop a whole rounded person.

“It’s great to be at a place where that is strongly in their thoughts.”