Ex-Norwich City striker James Vaughan has continued his football career after retirement by taking a new role at Everton. 

Vaughan has been promoted from loans pathway manager at Goodison Park to a new position of head of academy recruitment and player pathways. 

He returned to the club in September 2022 after a brief spell as sporting director at League Two side Tranmere Rovers. Vaughan called time on his playing career aged 32. 

The striker joined Norwich from Everton in a £1.5million deal back in 2011 ahead of City's Premier League return under Paul Lambert. 

Vaughan's spell at Carrow Road was plagued by injuries and reduced him to just six appearances during his time in Norfolk. 

After leaving City to join Huddersfield in 2013, Vaughan went on to represent Sunderland, Wigan, Bradford and Tranmere before retiring. 

His role will be to try to attract the best young talent to Goodison Park and nurture their development during their time at the club. 

"This is a new role I am extremely passionate and excited about and to be given the opportunity to do it at Everton is a real honour," said Vaughan.

"I said when I rejoined the Club 18 months ago it felt like I'd come home. It's a privilege to be here, knowing what the Club means to so many people. I know because I feel that, too.

"We want the best for Everton and I will work relentlessly in helping to achieve our wider goal of building a bright future for this club."

The Pink Un: James Vaughan made six appearances for Norwich City.James Vaughan made six appearances for Norwich City. (Image: PA Images)

Sporting director Kevin Thelwell, whose son Robbie works within City's recruitment team, spoke of his delight at the ex-Norwich striker taking on the new position at Everton. 

"We are delighted James is stepping up to become Head of Academy Recruitment & Player Pathways, a new role within our football structure.

"Having been part of the Club since the age of six and progressing through the playing ranks, from pre-Academy to the Men's Senior Team, we believe James will offer a unique perspective. With his personal experience, outstanding football knowledge and determined character, we are confident he will succeed in what is a very important position as we build for the future.”