Preston North End appoint Mike Pollitt as their new goalkeeping coach

The former Wigan Athletic, Rotherham United and Bolton Wanderers keeper coach will start his role when the PNE squad report back for pre-season training on August 13.

Pollitt, 48, steps into the vole vacated by Gould who is returning to live in New Zealand - he coached there for 10 years between 2005 and 2015.

It was in August last year that Gould came to North End, returning to Deepdale where he had spent a spell as a player.

He forged a strong working relationship with the PNE keepers, Declan Rudd clearly increasing his level of performance and confidence under Gould's tutelage.

North End manager Alex Neil said: "Jonathan and I had a lengthy discussion, he didn't want to leave, we didn't want him to leave but we understand the situation and it's obviously with a heavy heart that he leaves us.

"He has been a great servant while he was here, he certainly helped Declan Rudd, he was a great addition to the backroom team and we all wish him well.

"I think it was important that we got somebody in a similar vein to Jonathan, who has been about and worked with top goalkeepers.

"Mike has got that element of experience and hopefully he can be a steady influence on the 'keepers.

"I think he will be a great addition to us and hopefully going forward he can show what he's capable of."