Sunderland have confirmed the appointment of Southampton's head of academy operations Robin Nicholls.

Nicholls had been at the Staplewood Campus for the Saints over the past six years.

The former United States-based coach worked with age groups from the Under-9s to Under-18s.

However, he will not leave his role immediately, with the transition set to take place in the coming months.

“The role of academy manager is fundamental to our day-to-day operations, but more importantly it provides the strategic leadership required for ongoing and lasting success," Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said.

"Robin has excellent experience in several roles within an environment that has a proven track record in nurturing young talent, so we are delighted to have attracted someone of his calibre to Sunderland AFC.

"His arrival completes our academy staffing structure and now we look forward to supporting him and the wider team in further developing our youth programme."