Major changes to the men’s national water polo squads were confirmed at December meetings of the English and British technical water polo committees. In 2004 there will be two squads – a youth squad for players born in 1987 and later and a top squad for those born 1986 and earlier.

Restructuring of the programme is based around “goals of readmittance” to European senior competition, the Commonwealth Games and establishing a strong “athlete pathway”.

A statement explains: “The new top squad will comprise athletes from both the current junior and senior teams, selection for which will be based on criteria shortly to be announced.

“These changes are the latest in the restructuring of British water polo. 2004 will see the introduction of new coaching accreditation, a long-term athlete development programme and a pathway for the improvement of club programmes.

“The international team staff are currently working to ensure that all players and clubs are aware of the recent changes. Further details will follow.”

The top squad will be coached by Rotherham’s Norman Leighton and Jerome Read, of Hammersmith Penguin, and managed by Howard Cartwright, former National League chairman. The youth squad staff comprises Mike Yates, Tim Dunsbee and Tim Legge.