Jim Magilton's fine-tuning of his backroom team has continued with the appointment of Keith Ryan as the Club's new Reserve Manager.

Ryan, who previously oversaw the Centre of Excellence, has been promoted to assist Magilton and co. at First Team level.

As a result of the re-shuffle, Steve Gallen has been appointed Youth Development Manager, with former R's cult hero Marc Bircham returning to his boyhood Club as Youth Development Assistant Manager.

Speaking of Ryan's appointment, Magilton told www.qpr.co.uk: "Keith is a top coach and his enthusiasm and ambition is excellent.

"John (Gorman) knows him really well from their time at Wycombe and he's really impressed me with his knowledge and understanding of the game."

Magilton added: "Having him involved with the First Team set-up is great.

"He's an infectious character and has a great rapport with the players, and that's exactly what I'm looking for with all my staff."

As well as running the R's second string, Ryan will also play an active role on First Team matchdays, assisting Magilton, John Gorman and fellow coach David Rouse.

"He'll play a key role for us," added the R's gaffer.

"As well as being in charge of the Reserves, he'll play an integral role in my backroom team on a daily basis."

On the changes at Youth team level, Magilton added: "We've had a long, hard look at it, and I'm delighted with how we're set up now.

"Steve (Gallen) has a great attitude and approach to the game and he knows the young lads very well having been here for such a long time.

"He's already played a key role in bringing a number of young lads up to First Team level and long may that continue."

Magilton concluded: "Bringing Birch back to the Club is a very positive step.

"QPR runs through his blood. He grew up supporting Rangers; he's skippered the Club; and he knows what it means to play for the R's."