NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed key academy changes in a bid to produce more homegrown players - including bringing in Shola Ameobi to join the set up.

At a time when Rafa Benitez’s future remains unclear having pushed for improvements to the club’s infrastructure – including in the academy – as part of his contract talks, the Magpies have at least made progress behind the scenes on youth development.

While Newcastle has confirmed that lead academy goalkeeping coach Steve Harper and Under-18s head coach Dave Watson have left their positions, there has been a shift in roles for numerous others.

Former Leeds boss Neil Redfearn has been brought in as the head coach for the Under-23s after the man he replaces, Ben Dawson, was given the overall responsibility of head academy coaching after they reached the Premier League 2 division two play-off final and Premier League Cup final last term.

Mark Atkinson will be Dawson’s assistant after moving from his head coaching role at Sunderland. He will be work with the coaching staff and players up to under-16 level before the latter takes over.

Neil Winskill will become the Under-18s' head coach, with Kevin Richardson remaining as the Under-18s assistant coach.

Former Newcastle striker Ameobi has been named as the new loan coordinator.

Newcastle’s academy manager Joe Joyce said: "We are pleased to welcome Shola, who needs no introduction. To have him looking after the players who are a step away from first team football is a great addition to the player development programme.

"He will be able to pass on his experience both as a coach and a player, and can educate the lads in what it takes to make the transition into first team football."

Ian Bogie - a former Newcastle midfielder who has enjoyed a long and successful career as a player and as a coach - has been promoted from his part-time position as Under-14s coach to the full-time role of Under-16s lead coach.

The appointments have been confirmed during a period when everyone connected with the club waits to hear who will be leading the first team next season. Benitez's contract is due for renewal on June 30.