Everton’s u16 coach Jose Baxter has left the club to take up a role as u21 manager of the Malaysia international team.
The former Everton player, who retired early from the game at the age of just 29, was brought to Everton in 2021 as an academy assistant coach.
Baxter, who has his UEFA A Licence coach, has been heavily involved in Everton’s u16s side and took a leading role in managing the side in a tournament in Abu Dhabi last month. However, the 37-year-old has now left the club to take up a job in Malaysia.
Malaysia boss Peter Cklamovski said: “He has been part of our long-term recruitment plans. Initially, the plan was for him to support the under-23 team but when Mark Milligan left, we saw the perfect opportunity to elevate him to the senior set-up while keeping him connected with the youth team.
“His experience and skill set will benefit both sides and that continuity is vital for the future of Malaysian football.”
While Baxter is a highly rated academy coach the move means Everton’s overhaul of the academy means there is an opportunity to revamp how the club operates at u16 level.
There are signs the club is changing already. The fact Everton shared highlights of the u16 tour is a step change in how it treats academy football. Previously the club has hidden many details of what happens beneath u18 level to ensure hot prospects are not poached by nearby academies.
However, a top level academy needs prospective players to understand they will get exceptional standards of coaching and opportunities to play academies from around the world. Everton are being more open with the academy ahead of a major summer reset that will mean a new Head of Academy is appointed.
Young players and prospects will want to know they are being coached by top level coaches at academy level and the next appointment could be crucial.
Everton can now add u16 coach to the long list of vacancies that includes an academy goalkeeping coach, academy analysts and a ‘Player Development’ specialist aimed at helping players make it in the professional game.
They will be essential to develop potential first year scholars such as Jon Nsangou, who has already made his u18s debut and scored his first goals at the higher age group including a double against Liverpool in the mini derby last month. Others include 16-year-old Malik Olayiwola, who has looked electric in attacking positions in u18 games, and Bramley Moore’s first Everton goalscorer Ray Roberts.