Bowyer returns to Derby to become U23s coach
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Bowyer started his coaching journey with Derby's Academy
Written by Simon Austin — September 13, 2020
FORMER Blackburn, Blackpool and Bradford manager Gary Bowyer has been appointed Under-23s boss at Derby County.
The 49-year-old replaces Craig Short, who left to become assistant manager of Oxford United last month.
Bowyer, who will work alongside Senior Professional Development Phase Coach Pat Lyons, started his coaching career with Derby after retiring from playing and spent a total of four years with them from 2000 to 2004.
“I left in 2004, when Moor Farm here was just in its infancy, but it is great to be back and I can’t wait to get started,” the Pro Licence coach told Rams TV.
“The club has always had a great tradition and history in terms of producing young players. A young Tom Huddlestone made his debut at 16 when I was a youth coach here, right through to the talent we have now in the first team.
“It is something that I have always kept my eye on, and to be part of that again was something I just couldn’t turn down.
“Coming in to work at such a fantastic facility as well and the pathway at this club has been superb and I just want to be part of that again.”
“The job itself requires a lot commitment, a lot of long hours and dedication and that is the main buzz when you see someone that you have worked with, or known since Under-12s and seen them progress throughout the years to make their first-team debut – which is fantastic, but to then to have an established career as well.
“You take great pride in yourself knowing you played a small part, ultimately it is them who step out on that pitch week-in-week-out.”
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