Zane has worked closely with the Jets as W-League Coach and is looking forward to now working with the game’s youth.

“I am delighted to be chosen for the role as Head of the National Youth League team, especially considering the amount of interest in the role,” Zane said.

“As a Novocastrian who has been through the system myself, I hope to help our current and future Jets youth team players make the step up to becoming professional players.

“I am thrilled the club has allowed me the opportunity to work with those earmarked as potential first team players at the Jets.”

The Newcastle-born player returned home after a playing and coaching career abroad; including 14 games for the Socceroos, (and at the group stage of the 2001 Confederations Cup scoring the only goal against France), as well as playing with Molde and Anderlecht.

In the four years with Anderlecht, the club won the Championship three times, and qualified for the Champions League three times and the European Cup on one occasion.

Before coaching the Jets W-League, Zane coached Queens Park Rangers U16s in London.

“Clayton supports our charter of developing local talent on and off the park and we believe he is the best fit to lead our youth team,” CEO Robbie Middleby said.

“Clayton has achieved a lot in our game and we have been impressed with him during his time at the Jets to date.

“We know he and James Pascoe will do a wonderful job with our youth team."

Zane replaces Arthur Papas, who recently accepted the Indian U22/23 Head Coach, and will be assisted by Pascoe. Zane’s role will also include being assistant to A-League coach Gary van Egmond.

“James and Arthur have done a terrific job in helping the development of the current team and my transition into the role will be made easier with James staying on board,” Zane added.

“James has be doing a fantastic job with the team in the NBN competition and has the team in a great position at the halfway point.

“I am also looking forward to working with Gary and his support staff to help me develop as a coach within the Jets structure.”

Zane starts in his new role on July 1 and Pascoe continues as interim head coach.