FORMER Sunderland player Darren Holloway has taken over as head of a North-East academy.

The Crook-born defender, who made 59 appearances for the Black Cats between 1995 and 2000, has been appointed head football coach at East Durham College’s academy.

The 37-year-old, who also played for Darlington and Gateshead before retiring early due to knee problems, will coach more than 80 students.

He said: “It’s great to join up with East Durham College as the new head coach.

“The college has a great setup with fantastic facilities and hopefully my knowledge and expertise will help the students to progress forward and take the college’s scholarship programme to the next level.”

Chris English, the college’s curriculum manager for sport, said: “We are delighted to have Darren on board as head coach here at East Durham College.

“Darren has a wealth of knowledge in all areas of football coaching and I’m sure he will be able to help take our students and the college’s football programme to the next level.”