Josh Francou to quit North Adelaide and join Sydney Swans

JOSH Francou will quit as North Adelaide coach at the end of the SANFL finals series to join AFL premier Sydney as its development manager.

JOSH Francou will quit as North Adelaide coach at the end of the SANFL finals series to join AFL premier Sydney as its development manager.

The Swans made the announcement last night, just six days before the Roosters play Central District in the elimination final.

"I'm really pleased to return to the AFL club environment, particularly at a successful club like the Swans," Francou said.

"It's a fantastic challenge ahead and I look forward to working together with the playing group and other development coaches."

Sydney coach John Longmire said Francou's 156-game AFL career with Port Adelaide, his time at North Adelaide and experience as a school teacher made him a valuable edition to the Swans.

Francou has been coach of North Adelaide since 2011.

In a statement on North's website last night, the club said it was "extremely disappointed" to lose Francou and it would begin searching for a replacement for 2014 immediately.

"While it is an exciting opportunity, my sole focus is on preparing the North Adelaide Football Club for Sunday's elimination final," Francou said.

"We face a tough assignment against Central District and I've got to make sure the playing group is ready to perform at its peak during the major round."

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