Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed today that Robert Earnshaw will join USL affiliate Fresno FC as an assistant coach.

“It’s vitally important that we have a link to Fresno,” noted Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “Earnie has worked in our system for the last two years at various levels, and this is now the next stage for him in his coaching career. He knows the young players that have gone down to Fresno and will help them through this new challenge. That will be key in both making them feel more comfortable, and to report back to us on their progress.”

Earnshaw has been added to head coach Adam Smith’s staff alongside fellow assistant coaches Gordon Young and Ryan Kenny. The club also announced that Jeremy Schultz will serve as director of soccer operations and as assistant general manager to Frank Yallop.

“It’s been a long and diligent process putting together the inaugural first-team staff for Fresno FC, but it’s been worth the time and effort and I’m looking forward to working alongside a great staff,” said Smith. “I think we have a good blend of knowledge and experience, internationally and locally. I believe we’ve got a group of leadership that is hungry for an opportunity to succeed at this level,” he added.

Earnshaw makes the move to Fresno after starting his coaching career with the Whitecaps FC Residency program. The 18-year professional player began as U-14 Residency head coach in 2016 before moving on to become assistant coach with the U-17 Residency team this season. The former Welsh international scored 220 career goals for 11 clubs in six different countries and concluded his playing career after the 2015 season with Whitecaps FC.

For more information on the ‘Caps USL affiliation, visit whitecapsfc.com/usl.