John O’Shea has begun his coaching career, joining former club Reading as a first-team coach alongside Jose Gomes. The Irishman called time on his playing career, which also saw him feature for Manchester United and Sunderland, at the end of the 2018/19 season. However, this step into a new role comes after previously stating his intention to become a coach and the Royals moved quickly to secure his appointment.
Reading Appoint John O’Shea to First Team Coach Role
Swift Return
O’Shea featured nine times for Reading last season as they battled against the drop in the Championship. The 38-year-old’s limited appearances perhaps led to his retirement announcement before the season concluded, and he made his final professional appearance five days later against Birmingham City.
While he did not appear often for the Berkshire side, the effect he had on the club was clear to see. Players formed a guard of honour when he entered the pitch as an 89th-minute substitute against Birmingham and he was presented with a commemorative shirt after the match, which was his 803rd for club and country.
What They Said
Speaking to the club’s website, manager Jose Gomes said: “John is an intelligent, modest, positive, highly-respected individual who enjoyed a quite remarkable playing career. He competed at the very highest level and remained a model professional throughout – and he set a perfect example for our young players to follow last season. I am excited to work alongside him again, this time as a fellow coach and I’m delighted he has agreed to join us.
Chief Executive Nigel Howe added: “As a player, John O’Shea won everything. Now, I am delighted that he begins a new career on the other side of the white line at Reading Football Club. John is a man who commands so much respect within the world of football and I am sure our players will benefit hugely from the knowledge he has acquired and can now share as a first-team coach.”
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