During his career, Pattison has also featured on the International stage for South Africa after being born in Johannesburg before moving to England at the age of 11. He went on to feature against the likes of United States of America, Kenya, and Mozambique picking up valuable caps for Bafana Bafana.

Whilst playing in the Premier League with Newcastle, Pattison played alongside some star-studded names including Alan Shearer, Michael Owen, Patrick Kluivert, Craig Bellamy and many more. Not to mention being managed by legendary Sir Bobby Robson.

Pattison, 35, will initially team up with Stuart Brightwell and the Green team at i2i along with Chris Fairless and the Women’s Academy.

“I’m delighted to be joining the i2i team” said Pattison.

“It’s a company that is growing all the time and it’s an opportunity that excites me. I’m really looking forward to working with young players and helping them improve alongside some of the quality coaches at i2i.”

i2i CEO Matt Gore said: “We are delighted to have brought Matty on board, he’s played at the highest level and his knowledge and experience will be a brilliant addition to our already fantastic team at Northumbria.”

i2i’s Head of Coaching Bryan Hughes said: “Matty is another very exciting appointment for our student athletes at our Northumbria campus. To be able to bring a former Newcastle United player and a former South African International into our coaching team just shows the calibre of personnel we look to attract.”

Welcome to the team, Matty!

#OneBigFamily