Josh Kirk

Alumni

Career Path: Head of Analysis - Brentford Football Club
Location: London, UK

After studying Performance Analysis in my second year at Northumbria, I knew it was the discipline that interested me most. From the lectures and seminars I wanted to find out more about analysis and more specifically football tactics. During my third year studies, I managed to gain an internship with Newcastle United FC, which gave me my first experience in a professional environment - a great introduction to analysis! After graduating, I gained a place on a masters course funded by Leicester City FC in the academy. This saw me work full-time alongside my studies for a season, before being offered a full-time role for a second season. I then managed to get a first team role at Sheffield United FC for 3 seasons which included Promotion to the Premier League and then also sadly a relegation - a real mixture of emotions. After my time there I joined Brentford FC in August 2021 as Head of Analysis and have been here since.

What are you doing now?

I am leading the analysis provision at Brentford where I mainly focus on opposition analysis. We have a fantastic team of Analysts here who also focus on post-match, set-pieces, individual development, data & academy teams.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

When I came for an open day, I loved the buzz around the campus. It just felt right and I knew I wanted to move to Newcastle.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I really enjoyed my time. A mixture of lectures, seminars, practical sessions allowed us to really grasp information needed, but the main thing was all staff and peers were top.

How connected was your course with industry?

As mentioned, I had the privilege of doing an internship at Newcastle United. But not only that, we also had some fantastic guest speakers from all disciplines. This allowed us to hear about the industry in real life.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

Massively. It gave me first hand experience of working in an academy, whilst doing some bits with the first team - it was a great first step and allowed me to begin my journey.

What was the best thing about your course?

Simple - the people.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

All of it. It was a great 3 years and I do miss those days!

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Do it. But make sure you also throw yourself into the deep end. Do stuff that you think will help you in the future. I was coaching, analysing and more coaching in my final year. I don't coach now, but it gave me more tactical understanding!