O'Neil appointed U23s assistant by Liverpool

O'Neil holds the Uefa Pro Licence

O'Neil holds the Uefa Pro Licence

FORMER Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and West Ham midfielder Gary O'Neil has taken his first job in coaching as assistant of Liverpool's Under-23s.

In his final season as a player, in 2018/19, O’Neil was named Bolton’s Player of the Year. However, a serious Achilles injury saw him enter semi-retirement and his focus turned to coaching.

The 37-year-old, who holds the Uefa Pro Licence, will assist Barry Lewtas, who was promoted to U23s coach in May after two seasons with the U18s.

"I think as a team, me and Barry will work very well and there's some fantastic players to work with,” O’Neil said. “For me to have the opportunity to work with such a talented group of young players at such an early part of my coaching career, I feel very privileged.

"I'm getting to see them with a fresh set of eyes, which can be useful as well, but Barry offers a wealth of experience and obviously I'm new into coaching.

“I’ve done all my coaching badges and have known I’d wanted to go that way for a very long time. I think I’ve made no secret of the fact that I want to manage eventually, and when Liverpool speak to you about a job there’s only one answer you give generally – and that was a very quick yes.”

Academy manager Alex Inglethorpe added: "Gary's knowledge, experience and passion for the game will help not only the players that he works with, but also the staff as well."

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