GREG Leigh will find himself managed by former Oxford United player and coach Steve McClaren after he was appointed the new Jamaica head coach.

McClaren has spent the last two years as assistant to Erik ten Hag at Manchester United, but will leave the Red Devils after agreeing a two-year deal with the Reggae Boyz.

He succeeds Heimir Hallgrimsson, who resigned in June to take charge of the Republic of Ireland.

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McClaren’s remit will be to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and he told the Jamaica Football Federation website: “I am extremely proud and excited to take up the position of head coach for the Jamaica men’s national team.

“I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career.

“Prior to returning to Manchester United for a second spell, I spent time at FIFA as a technical advisor on their Global Eco Analysis project.

“Jamaica was one of the teams I worked with, and I quickly came to realise the potential the country possessed.

“In the years since, that potential has grown significantly and there is every reason to believe that with continued hard work and development a bright future lies ahead.”

Speaking to the Red Devils website, ten Hag said: “I want to thank Steve for his tremendous service over the past two years.

“He has been an invaluable source of support and advice to me since I arrived in English football, helping us achieve two trophies while laying down foundations for further success.

“Steve and I have been friends for 16 years since we first worked together at FC Twente and that relationship will continue as he embarks on this next challenge, as will his bond with Manchester United. All of us at the club wish Steve the best of luck in his new role.” 

McClaren joined the U’s in 1989 and featured 33 times before injury ended his playing career.

He went on to become a coach at the club, before leaving for Derby County, and in 1999, he became Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Old Trafford.

Managerial spells with Middlesbrough, England, FC Twente, Wolfsburg, Nottingham Forest, Derby County, Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers have followed.