Former Newcastle Knights captain and premiership-winning coach Michael Hagan has been appointed as the club’s director of football.

The newly created role will see Hagan return to the Knights after eight years away.

As director of football Hagan will be responsible and accountable for the entire football department, while providing support for head coach Rick Stone and mentoring the club’s emerging coaches.

Hagan’s primarily role will focus on building an elite environment of coaching and infrastructure, enabling all players and coaches to maximise their potential.

He will also manage the player list and recruitment.

Hagan coached Newcastle to its 2001 premiership win and most recently has been assistant coach for the Queensland Origin side.

“We are obviously pleased Michael has agreed to return to the club,” chief executive Matt Gidley said.

“Michael is highly respected and the perfect fit to assist us in taking the club forward as we enter a new era.”

Hagan’s role with the Knights commences in early October and allows him to remain assistant coach with the Maroons.

He said he was happy to be back at the club.

“After some time away, the timing feels right and I am really excited about the challenge of working back at the Knights,” Hagan said.

“I look forward to working alongside and supporting Matt and Rick, as we all work together to ensure the future success of the club.”