Liverpool have had a few reshuffles in the academy in the past year. The Reds have lost some staff and gained some, unsurprising given the fluid nature of academy football. The club have today confirmed that Gary O’Neil has left Liverpool to join the Bournemouth coaching staff.
Who is Gary O’Neil?
37-year-old Gary O’Neil had a long career as a player before taking up coaching.
Playing as a midfielder he spent time at Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers to name just a few of his clubs.
He also earned some youth caps for England but he couldn’t quite crack the senior side.
In August last year he was appointed as U23s assistant manager, working with Barry Lewtas.
The move came following Lewtas’ own appointment after Neil Critchley left for Blackpool.
Speaking at the time of his appointment, O’Neil said:
“I think as a team, me and Barry will work very well and there’s some fantastic players to work with. 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.”
O’Neil joins Bournemouth staff
Today Liverpool confirmed that Gary O’Neil has left the Liverpool academy to join Bournemouth.
The 37-year-old will take up a first team coaching role with the Cherries.
His switch comes soon after Jonathan Woodgate was appointed as Bournemouth’s manager until the end of the season.
We would like to join the club in wishing O’Neil all the best with his stay in Bournemouth.
This is a great opportunity for the young coach, joining an exciting project on the South Coast with Bournemouth looking to return to the top flight.