NEWCASTLE United have confirmed the appointment of former Southend United striker Graeme Jones to the club’s coaching staff.

Gateshead-born Jones has left his role as first-team coach at Bournemouth to assist manager Steve Bruce.

He said: “I’m proud to be here at the team I supported as a boy, and all of my life. During my playing and coaching career, it has always been the first result I would look for after my own.

“Now, I’ve hopefully got a chance to have a direct influence on results and the future of the football club, which is something I’m very excited for.”

Bruce added: “I’m delighted to welcome Graeme on board. He is vastly experienced and I could tell speaking to him that he is hugely passionate about the club and very keen to join us.

“He is from here but has been away for 35 years so the opportunity to come in and give us a hand is one he has jumped at.”

Jones scored three goals in 26 games for Blues during the 2002/03 season.