O'Neil appointed U23s assistant by Liverpool
O'Neil holds the Uefa Pro Licence
Written by Simon Austin — August 10, 2020
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."
