TRIPLE-PREMIERSHIP defender Matthew Scarlett will return to Geelong next season as a part-time development coach. 

Scarlett, who retired after a 284-game career that included six All Australian selections, comes back to the Cattery after spending two seasons at the Western Bulldogs in a similar role.

"Adding Matthew Scarlett, one of the greatest players of all time, to our group provides another quality coach for our players. It is evident already that 'Scarlo' is as excited to be back as we are to have him," Geelong's football manager Steve Hocking told the club's website.

Scarlett's appointment headlines a significant restructure of the Cats' coaching panel for 2015.

Paul Hood will now lead the club's VFL team, taking the reins from Matthew Knights.

Knights and Nigel Lappin will work with the club's midfielders; Blake Caracella will take on attack and defence strategy and Shane O'Bree has moved into a role as development coach and will lead the club's advanced skill development program.

"We have made a number of changes that we feel offer greater role clarity to our coaching group and highlights the strengths of our staff," Hocking said.

 

"The club has a group of talented coaches who bring unique qualities to their roles. They work well together and with our players. 

Dale Amos will continue to work with the club's defenders, while James Rahilly has been given the responsibility of looking after the forwards.

Max Rooke will continue as development coach, while Troy Selwood will move into a new role as Academy and VFL manager.