For improvement of operation of football academy well-known English expert James Shoulder was appointed as the director of academy.

“We hope his experience in Britain, in particular, with Sunderland, will help to lift preparation of young stars to new level,” Pakhtakor Vice-President Samvel Babayan said.

Shoulder officially will assume his duties on 1 February. But he already is engaged in academy affairs, develops plans and curriculum of the academy.

James Shoulder said that he will try to contribute to development of children and youth football development in Uzbekistan in cooperation with coaches.

Samvel Babayan added that several fields will be constructed near Pakhtakor stadium for children and youth teams, including with artificial coverage. He added that Pakhtakor youngsters will participate in several international tournaments and coaches underwent trainings.