Barnet Football Club can confirm that Academy Manager James Thorne is set to leave the club.

An opportunity has arisen for James to join a Premier League club in a senior position and he leaves The Hive with everyone’s best wishes.

Over the past five years James has overseen the development of the academy which has made immeasurable strides both on and off the pitch.

The quality of the facilities and infrastructure have continually improved and Barnet FC has become a fantastic starting point for young players who are passionate about playing professional football at an elite standard.

Speaking to BarnetFC.com, Thorne praised the hard work undertaken by the staff, the players and the club throughout his time at The Hive. 

“The Academy has become an integral part of my life throughout my five-years at the club and it has made immeasurable strides forward both on and off the pitch.”

“The quality of coaching and players is a testament to the hard work being done by a dedicated group of staff who will continue to serve the same values, ethics and hard work with an extremely positive determination and attitude which have become the bedrock of all the accomplishments made by the Academy.

He added: “Finally, I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff and players for the hard work and dedication which has created an ethos from which the Academy can continue to thrive and prosper.”

Chairman Tony Kleanthous also thanked Thorne and wished him the very best of luck moving forward.

“James has been a fantastic servant to the club and he leaves with everyone’s best wishes.

“An opportunity at a Premier League club is one that may only come once in a lifetime so we wish him the very best of luck and look forward to seeing him develop at the very top of the game.

Kleanthous continued: “The Academy will continue to operate in the same way moving forward and the club remain committed to the development of young players.”

The club thanks James for his contribution over the past five years and wish him the best of luck for the future.