The 63-year-old, who made more than 400 appearances during an incredible spell at Carrow Road, will oversee the technical direction of the men’s game in Australia, including player development, coach education and competitions.

Crook has built up almost three decades of coaching and technical experience since hanging up his boots, including a return to Norwich as a first-team coach under Bryan Gunn and Paul Lambert, and will now take up a key leadership role in the Australian game.

“I’m honoured to be appointed head of men’s football and look forward to building on the great work and progress that’s already been made," Crook told the Australian FA.

“My focus will be on building an aligned system across the men’s game, bringing together our national teams from the U23s down, coach education and competitions, so we’re all working together as we define our Australian way of playing.

“I want to unify the game through collaboration, uniting all our stakeholders, internal and external, so we can keep growing the game together.

“Over the next 60 days, my priority will be speaking with the game’s key stakeholders, including our Member Federations and A-League clubs.”

Crook's experience Down Under has been extensive, with stints in charge of Northern Spirit, Newcastle Jets and Sydney FC, as well as in Japan with Avispa Fukuoka. He has since transitioned into youth development where he has led technical departments at Western Sydney, Football NSW, NSW Institute of Sport and Manly United. 

Football Australia executive director of football Heather Garriock believes Crook’s experience and existing relationships within the Australian game made him an ideal fit for the role.

“Ian’s appointment is a significant one as we strengthen our technical capability and build a connected Football Department and work cross-functionally across the business," she said.

“Ian already knows our people and programs well. He brings a wealth of experience, trusted relationships and a collaborative approach, and his ability to connect people across the game will be a real strength as we bring our teams and priorities together.

Crook returned as a City coach in 2009 - working under Bryan Gunn and Paul Lambert. (Image: ©Archant Photographic 2010)

“As our senior technical authority in the men’s game, Ian will strengthen the links between player development, coach education and competitions, including the Hahn Australia Cup, the Australian Championships and the CommBank Emerging Championships.

“His leadership will contribute across the broader Football ecosystem, working closely with colleagues, Member Federations, clubs and leagues to improve pathways, support player wellbeing and strengthen national team performance.

“Above all, this appointment reflects how we want to work: sharing expertise, building strong relationships and taking collective responsibility for better football outcomes.”