David Lee has come on board City's first-team coaching ranks as development coach.

The 39-year-old ex-Chelsea defender actually spent the back end of last season with the club, working with City's younger first team squad members.

And he will continue the role full-time for the new football season, with the club boasting a strong 'Under-21 group' for 2009/10.

 World TV: David Lee video exclusive

David's role to work with the young players for extra sessions, keep check of them when they aren't in the first-team matchday squads and also view their performances when out on loan.

"My role is to work with the players aged between 18-21, who have either come out of the club's Academy or brought in by the manager," David told Bristol City World.

"It's about development on and off the pitch. We have an excellent group here and hopefully I can use my experience to help them develop."

New recruit Andre Blackman joins John Akinde, Frankie Artus, Joe Edwards, Marlon Jackson, Ashley Kington, Tristan Plummer, Christian Ribeiro, Jordan Walker and James Wilson in the Under-21 ranks. Goalkeeper Stephen Henderson has only just turned 21 - meaning City have a full XI of youth players in their first team ranks.

And David has plenty of experience in moulding young players, having spent time as youth team manager and reserve coach at Swindon under Dennis Wise.

"I had my time at Swindon and also spent time as assistant manager of Weston. I enjoy coaching, having completed my UEFA licence after I'd finished my playing career.

"The manager is good to work for and I want to take this opportunity that's come my way."