Chelsea chiefs have backed Andy Myers' move to Vitesse Arnhem.

Prior to his move to the Netherlands, the former Blues defender led the Chelsea Under-15 age group before moving up to assist Dermot Drummy and, more recently, Adi Viveash, with the Under-21s and Under-19s.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for Andy and we wish him the best of luck," says technical director Michael Emenalo. "He has done a fantastic job as an Academy coach for the past eight years and now he is able to take the next step forward in his coaching career."

Neil Bath, head of youth development, also told chelseafc.com: "This allows us to continue developing our coaching fraternity and supports great career progression for people like Ian Howell, James Simmonds, Ed Brand and Jody Morris this season, plus numerous others in the younger age groups."