Enock Mwepu has joined Albion’s team of academy coaches.

The former Seagulls and Zambia midfielder, who had to retire from playing recently, will take up the role of under-nines coach in the New Year.

Mwepu was forced to hang up his boots at the age of just 24 due to a hereditary heart condition.

Albion believe he has huge potential as a coach.

He has taken time to assess his options in recent weeks and has now decided to return to the club.

Albion chief executive and deputy chairman Paul Barber said: “We were very keen to help Enock with the next stage of his career, and we’re delighted he’s taken us up on the offer to join our academy coaching staff after an incredibly difficult time for him and his family following his diagnosis.

“Whenever we recruit a new member of staff, on or off the pitch, we want them to fit with our club values and Enock absolutely encapsulates those perfectly.

“We’re thrilled Enock will continue to be part of our club, and believe Enock has a huge amount of potential as a coach.

“We want to give him the opportunity to flourish in this role.”