Leeds United news: Former Liverpool and Aston Villa player Stewart Downing secures backroom Elland Road position
Former Liverpool, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough player Stewart Downing has moved to Leeds United, according to LUFC Youth.
The academy news account reported on 19 January that the Englishman will be the coach for the under-21s side.
Having amassed over 400 Premier League appearances with Liverpool, Aston Villa, Middlesbrough and West Ham during his playing days, the 39-year-old will be working alongside Scott Gardner, who is the head coach of the reserves team.
Via Twitter, LUFC Youth wrote: " Congratulations to Stewart Downing who has been appointed #LUFCU21s coach. The former England international will work alongside Under-21s manager Scott Gardner."
Good appointment
Downing is an established and well-respected former player who's certainly going to bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to Elland Road.
This move marks the beginning of his coaching journey, providing him with an opportunity to share his vast knowledge and contribute to the development of young talents within the Leeds United academy.
He'll also bring some winning mentality to the club and share it with the youngsters which is extremely important.
He's won the League Cup with both Liverpool and Boro and has also won numerous individual awards as well.
He's still under 40 and it's ideal to take over a role where he will not be immediately responsible for the results and it can be more of mentoring and learning the ropes.
There have been coaches in the past that have been promoted to the senior team and given his experience and name recognition, it's something that could happen.
It remains to be seen what the future holds, but all in all, this seems to be a good appointment.
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