Preston North End are pleased to welcome John Lucas to the club as our new Head of Physical Performance.
The 37-year-old has previously worked under Ryan Lowe, firstly with Bury FC, before moving down to Plymouth Argyle with the manager.
He enjoyed promotion with both clubs, as well as Rochdale earlier in his career, and most recently spent the last season with League Two side Salford City.
Speaking after joining PNE, John said: “I’m really excited. Obviously it’s really good to be at such a big football club, a very historic football club with a great infrastructure.
“I’m coming to work with the manager who I’ve got quite a long relationship with previously at other clubs as a manager and as a player, so I’m really excited.
“It seems like there’s a big buzz around the place at the minute. Even looking at season ticket sales and things like that, it seems like everyone’s trying to push in one direction, and there’s a real kind of buzz and energy around the place.
“I just can’t wait to get working with the staff, the players and everyone else associated with the football club.”
As well as working at several clubs, John has a background of lecturing at the University of Bolton, and he has also worked with the Rugby Football Union.
In September 2021, he departed Plymouth Argyle for a move closer to home in Salford City – with Bury his birthplace – but he will now rejoin Ryan Lowe at PNE to lead the fitness department.
Ryan added: “I’ve worked with John for a number of years now and he was fantastic at Bury and when he moved down to Plymouth.
“He’s got great pedigree, all the expertise required and in my eyes he’s one of the best fitness coaches around.
“When I had the opportunity to work with him again it was a no brainer for me. He’ll make sure the lads are fitter, stronger and robust enough to play 40-odd games a season.
“We know each other inside and out, and I think he’ll be a fantastic addition to Preston North End.”
A full interview with John will be available to watch on iFollow on Tuesday.