Preston North End are pleased to confirm the appointment of James Wallace as the club's chief scout.
Wallace, who played for Tranmere Rovers and Fleetwood Town during his playing career, joins the club ahead of the 2022/23 season.
After retiring from playing in the summer of 2018, Wallace took on the role of Head of Recruitment at Fleetwood Town.
The 30-year-old is a former teammate of North End boss Ryan Lowe, and the gaffer was pleased to add James to his team at Deepdale.
Speaking on the appointment, Ryan said: “He knows the football industry inside out. He’s got loads of good connections, working at Fleetwood for two and a half years, maybe a little bit longer.
“He’s done fantastic recruitment for them, some good bargains, some good players, some from non-league as well.
“James knows everyone around the country. He’s well connected with all the football clubs, loan managers and everything else, so it’s important that we get a chief scout in that can go and watch games and watch players.
“At the end of the day it’s about what we do on the recruitment side of things, the analytical side of things and the data side of things, but there’s nothing better than getting eyes on a player and the players you’re potentially looking to sign.
“That’s what James’ job will be – getting out and seeing what’s out there. I’m really pleased to get him on board, he’s going to be a fantastic addition for us.”