Phil Jones Becomes Coach at Blackburn Rovers

Phil Jones, who played for Manchester United, is now a coach at Blackburn Rovers. He will work with manager Michael O'Neill, who also leads Northern Ireland's team.
By Newsroom | Football, Coaching |

Phil Jones, a player known for his tenure with Manchester United and as a title-winner with the club, has taken his first step into coaching. He has been appointed as an assistant manager at Blackburn Rovers. This move places him alongside Michael O'Neill, who is managing Blackburn on a job-sharing basis while also continuing his role as the manager of Northern Ireland. Steven Davis, a former midfielder for Southampton and Rangers, will also serve as an assistant manager, forming a trio of coaches at Blackburn.

Man United title-winner is handed his first coaching role as assistant to Blackburn's new job-sharing manager - 1

New Chapter for Former Manchester United Defender

Jones, who is 33 years old, embarks on this new career path following his playing days. His appointment at Blackburn comes as Michael O'Neill juggles his international commitments, including an upcoming World Cup play-off semi-final for Northern Ireland. Blackburn Rovers and Northern Ireland officials have stated their confidence that this arrangement will not detract from the team's performance.

Read More: Igor Tudor Becomes Tottenham's New Interim Coach

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Coaching Appointments and Team Dynamics

The arrival of Phil Jones at Blackburn marks a significant shift in his professional life. Jones played a part in Manchester United's Premier League title win during his time at the club. He now moves into a coaching capacity, a direction also taken by his former teammate, Michael Carrick. Carrick has recently been appointed as the head coach of Manchester United until the end of the season.

Man United title-winner is handed his first coaching role as assistant to Blackburn's new job-sharing manager - 3

  • Phil Jones's New Role: Assistant Manager at Blackburn Rovers.

  • Colleagues at Blackburn: Michael O'Neill (job-sharing manager), Steven Davis (assistant manager).

  • O'Neill's Dual Role: Manager of Blackburn Rovers and Northern Ireland.

  • Context: Jones is transitioning from playing to coaching.

Carrick's Manchester United Coaching Team

Meanwhile, at Manchester United, Michael Carrick has been appointed head coach. His coaching staff includes several notable figures:

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  • Steve Holland: Former assistant coach for Chelsea and England.

  • Jonathan Woodgate: Former center-back and someone who previously worked with Carrick at Middlesbrough.

  • Jonny Evans: A former Manchester United defender.

  • Travis Binnion: Promoted from his role as head coach of Manchester United's Under-21s.

  • Craig Mawson: Goalkeeping coach.

This collective of coaches aims to guide Manchester United through the remainder of the season.

  • Michael Carrick's Role: Head Coach at Manchester United until the end of the season.

  • Key Staff Members: Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, Craig Mawson.

  • Previous Interim Role: Darren Fletcher had served as caretaker manager before Carrick's appointment.

  • Club's Objective: To find a permanent head coach in the summer.

Northern Ireland's Perspective on O'Neill's Role

The decision for Michael O'Neill to take on a job-sharing role with Blackburn Rovers has been described as "progressive" by Northern Ireland representatives. They believe this arrangement will not negatively impact the country's efforts to qualify for the World Cup, citing the upcoming play-off match as a key fixture. The experience gained in club management is seen as beneficial for his international duties.

Managerial Transitions and Player Careers

The football landscape continues to see former players transition into management and coaching roles. The moves by Phil Jones and Michael Carrick highlight this trend. Carrick, a former Manchester United captain and title-winner, has now taken the helm at his former club. His journey into management includes a previous stint as caretaker manager. Jones's appointment at Blackburn signifies the beginning of his coaching career, following a distinguished playing career.

Expert Analysis

The strategic decision for managers to undertake dual roles, such as Michael O'Neill at Blackburn and Northern Ireland, is often viewed as a test of organizational capacity and individual performance. Whether such arrangements are sustainable and beneficial requires ongoing observation. For players like Phil Jones making a transition, gaining experience in a different capacity can offer valuable insights into the sport's evolving demands.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Phil Jones's new job?
Phil Jones is now an assistant manager at Blackburn Rovers. This is his first coaching role after being a player.
Q: Who is the manager at Blackburn Rovers?
Michael O'Neill is the manager. He also manages the Northern Ireland national team.
Q: Will Michael O'Neill's other job affect Blackburn?
Officials from Blackburn Rovers and Northern Ireland believe this will not hurt the teams. They think his experience is helpful.
Q: Is Michael Carrick also coaching?
Yes, Michael Carrick is the head coach for Manchester United until the end of the season. He has a team of coaches helping him.