CHERRIES have announced that club stalwart Joe Roach will depart the club this summer.

Since first joining the club in 2001, Roach has held a variety of positions throughout both the first team and academy set-up.

He served as caretaker of the first team twice, as well as a role as assistant manager. The 62-year-old’s has played a big part in improving Cherries’ academy system, helping to develop future internationals such as Sam Vokes and Danny Ings.

Speaking ahead of his departure, Roach told the club’s website: “No football club can exist without committed, passionate supporters and this football club has had the privilege to receive the backing of them in good times and bad.

“Thank you to those of you who have historically supported the club and those who helped keep the academy alive in its early stages of development.”

Over the years he has managed the now defunct reserve team, lead the under-18s, and held multiple different roles inside the academy.

Cherries are expected to receive Category Two status soon, much in part because of the groundwork laid by Roach.

In a statement on afcb.co.uk, the club recognised Roach’s efforts, sharing: “For a small club in a challenging recruitment area, these achievements speak volumes about the focus and determination of the team Roach assembled.

“With the backing of the board, Roach has played a significant role in the club being on the verge of improving its academy status and moving to a new training ground. 

“Everybody at AFC Bournemouth would like to thank Joe for his sterling efforts over the years and wish him all the best for the future.”

Having initially left the club in 2011, he was brought back to the club by Eddie Howe in 2014.

Before joining Cherries, Roach served as head of coaching with the Army FA.

Last summer, protegee Sam Gisborne took over Roach’s role as academy manager.

Gisborne had previously served as assistant academy manager to Roach, who took up a role as head of player progression.