Soccer

John O’Shea returns to Reading as a first-team coach

Former Ireland and Man United defender will work alongside manager Jose Gomes

John O’Shea is to return to Reading as first-team coach. Photograph: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images

Mon Jul 22 2019 - 19:49

John O'Shea has returned to Reading as a first-team coach. The 38-year-old from Waterford, who retired as a player after Reading's final game last season, will work alongside manager Jose Gomes and his backroom staff.

Reading signed the former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland defender in the summer of 2018 after his contract at Sunderland had expired. O'Shea had spent seven years at the Stadium of Light having arrived from Manchester United, where he started his career in 1999.

O’Shea made a combined total of 803 senior appearances in all competitions for club and country.

Reading manager Gomes told the club website: “John is an intelligent, modest, positive, highly-respected individual who enjoyed a quite remarkable playing career.

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“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.”

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