11 October 2023 , 13:05
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Wayne Rooney has confirmed Premier League icons Ashley Cole and John O'Shea will be part of his backroom staff at Birmingham City.
Rooney, who recently left Major League Soccer side DC United, was announced as Birmingham's new manager on Wednesday. He has succeeded John Eustace after the former Watford captain was ruthlessly axed with the Blues sixth in the Championship.
Rooney has assembled his support staff at St Andrew's - with Cole, O'Shea and forgotten midfielder Carl Robinson hired. The latter was a cult hero in the Football League after spells with Wolves, Sunderland and others during the nineties and noughties.
Robinson was Rooney's assistant at DC United and has followed the Manchester United legend to the West Midlands. The new Birmingham boss has also appointed Pete Shuttleworth, who was part of his coaching staff at Derby County between 2020 and 2022.
Birmingham have confirmed Cole and O'Shea will continue their coaching roles with their respective national sides. Cole is England U21's assistant manager - winning the U21 Euros during the summer - while O'Shea is the Republic of Ireland's assistant boss.
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Maik Taylor, who played for Birmingham in the Premier League, will continue his role as their goalkeeping coach. The Blues are going through a traditional period following a takeover in July, with NFL legend Tom Brady buying a minority stake in the club.
"I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time," said Rooney. "It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected.
Carl Robinson worked with Rooney at DC United (Getty Images)
Ashley Cole helped England win the U21 Euros during the summer (Getty Images)Do you think Wayne Rooney is a good appointment for Birmingham City? Let us know in the comments below!
"I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.
“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the first team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals. I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it.
"We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet. I’ve played at St Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us.
"My job is to elevate the club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver."