Huddersfield Town have confirmed this afternoon that Michael Tonge has joined the club as a coach.

The former Sheffield United and Leeds midfielder has linked up with the Terriers academy as the new 'Individual Coach'.

Tonge will be tasked with helping youngsters make the jump from the academy to the first-team, and he will work on ensuring each player is ready to step into what is a challenging environment.

The Championship side, who announced the news on their official site, will be placing a big emphasis on their academy as they look to build for the future under Carlos Corberan.

The boss is sure to be in contact with Tonge as he will have to explain the demands and requirements he wants from each player before they try and push for a place in the XI.

A noticeable and pleasing aspect of the Spaniard's management has been his willingness to give younger players a chance, and it's paid off so far. Huddersfield are currently 13th in the Championship but they have played some good football in recent weeks and will hope to kick-on.

Huddersfield Town quiz: Can you name the club’s top goalscorer from the last 13 seasons?

The verdict

For a club like Huddersfield, where they aren't blessed with huge finances, it's vital that you put a lot of focus on the academy.

And, that's exactly what they're doing. Having someone like Tonge, who played to a very good level over a long career, is only going to help and he will know what's needed to make the step up.

So, it will be interesting to see how this works out in the coming months and years, but in Corberan they have a coach who will give those kids a chance.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.