English Premier League club Leicester City have confirmed the appointment of Michael Appleton as the club’s new assistant manager.

“Leicester City Football Club is pleased to confirm the appointment of Michael Appleton as the Club’s new Assistant Manager,” the club said in a statement. 

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The 41-year-old joins the Foxes after three years as manager of League One side Oxford United. 

Appleton has signed a three-year contract and will link up with manager Craig Shakespeare’s staff when the Foxes reconvene for pre-season training in July. 

Craig Shakespeare said: “I am delighted that the Club have been able to bring a coach of Michael’s standing to Leicester City. Michael and I worked together at West Bromwich Albion and it quickly became clear that he possessed all the qualities and the integrity required to enjoy a successful coaching career.”

“I am sure that he will be a huge asset to Leicester City as we strive to achieve our objectives over the coming seasons, Shakespeare added.

The duo worked together when they were a part of Premier League side West Bromwich Albion’s backroom staff for a period of five years between 2003 and 2008.

Appleton joins the Foxes with a reputation as one of the country’s brightest coaches, having taken Oxford to consecutive Football League Trophy Finals over the past two seasons. 

Last season, the U’s finished in eighth place on their maiden campaign back in League 1, just four points off the play-off positions.