Tranmere Rovers International Soccer Academy has opened an Academy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

Coach Liam Hackett, 31, has been recruited to be the lead coach for the Tranmere Rovers Pittsburgh Academy as our international links continue to strengthen.

The Pittsburgh Academy works with local clubs to develop players using the Tranmere Rovers curriculum which incorporates futsal as a development tool to unlock the potential of the players in the local area.

Liam said: “I moved to America when I was 23. When I heard of Tranmere’s ambition to expand their International department, and having seen their expansion into the USA, we got in touch with the Club about creating the Tranmere Rovers Pittsburgh Academy.

“I was fortunate enough over the past six months to be at Tranmere’s training ground shadowing their Academy coaches. They have a proven track record of developing players and we’ll be taking those successful methods to the USA.

“We’re also looking to bring a lot more exposure for the Club!”

International Technical Director Dan O’Donnell and coach Matt Hunter will pay a visit to Pittsburgh in January to check on the progress of the Academy.

Commenting on the visit, Matt said: “We’re both really looking forward to visiting the Academy in Pittsburgh and can’t wait to get involved with the day to day operations.

“The Club has a fantastic track record of developing players and it will be great to implement our methods and way of coaching in the USA whilst giving players the opportunity to grow in a fun and professional environment.

“The launch of this Academy has been a few months in the making and we’re delighted to get it up and running. It’s also another big step for the Club on an International scale and exciting times for all involved!”

To find out more, please email Matt Hunter,matth@tranmererovers.co.uk.