Niedzwiecki joined Arsenal towards the end of 2000, following the sad and sudden death of George Armstrong. Eddie had no former connection with the Gunners but knew Pat Rice from having been coach of Chelsea's youth side when Pat was occupying the same role for Arsenal, and got the job at Highbury through Rice's recommendation.

He says he's had a good time at Arsenal, and that leaving is a "massive wrench", which is understandable given the unusual quality of reserve team players he has had to deal with, but that the lure of being a first team Premiership coach was irresistable. "Just like the young side I was taking in the reserves at Arsenal, I have always looked for progression. I could have sat at Arsenal for the next five, six or seven years being lovely and comfortable. But I wanted to see if I could do it at the top level." Niedzwiecki knows Mark Hughes from having filled the same coaching role alongside him at Wales. See Arsenal.com for more farewell quotes.

Neil Banfield has taken temporary charge of the reserves, and oversaw their 4-0 win over Coventry last night.