Zane replaces Wayne O’Sullivan, who led the team to sixth place last season, and will be assisted by former Matilda Joey Peters.

Cheryl Salisbury will act in an advisory role similar to that of Ray Baartz with the Jets A-League squad. The Hunter Sports Group have taken over the W-League side from Northern NSW Football. Jets chief executive Robbie Middleby said Zane was among a number quality applicants including O’Sullivan and former A-League assistant coach Mark Jones.

‘‘Clayton is a local boy and has a wealth of experience from overseas,’’ Middleby said.

‘‘The calibre of applicants was very strong. Wayne O’Sullivan was highly regarded and will stay involved through the NSW Institute of Sport program.

‘‘Mark Jones has been a major contributor to this club, but we believe at this point in time Clacka [Zane] is the right man for the job.

‘‘To have Joey Peters and Cheryl Salisbury involved is also a a major coup.’’

Zane returned to Newcastle in January after 12 years in Europe, has opened his own academy, and is also involved with Hunter Sports High.