Former Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Middlesbrough player Stewart Downing has joined Leeds United, according to LUFC Youth
The academy news account revealed on 19 January that the Englishman will be the coach for the under-21s team.
Having made over 400 Premier League games with Liverpool, Aston Villa, Middlesbrough, and West Ham during his playing career, the 39-year-old will be working alongside Scott Gardner, who is the head coach of the reserves squad.
LUFC Youth posted on Twitter, “Congratulations to Stewart Downing, who has been appointed #LUFCU21s coach.” The former England international will collaborate with Under-21s manager Scott Gardner.
Good appointment
Downing is a renowned and well-respected former player, who will undoubtedly bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to Elland Road.
This move signals the start of his coaching career, allowing him to share his extensive expertise and assist to the development of future talents at the Leeds United academy.
He’ll also bring a winning attitude to the club and share it with the young players, which is crucial.
He is still under 40, and it is excellent for him to take over a post where he is not directly responsible for the results, and it may be more of a mentoring and learning the ropes.
Coaches have already been promoted to the senior team, and given his expertise and name recognition, this is possible.
It remains to be seen what the future holds, but overall, this appears to be a positive appointment.
In other Leeds United news, Phil Hay believes that the Whites are really considering accepting reasonable bids for one player, with a new signing on the way.
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