Birmingham City have confirmed the appointment of Tom Huddleston as first-team assistant coach, after the midfielder left Premier League heavyweights Manchester United in July.
Huddleston joins Chris Davies’ ambitious League One promotion hopefuls as they seek a quick return to the Championship following a disastrous relegation in the previous season.
Since then, they have started well and are in second place, trailing leaders Wrexham on goal difference. The Blues trounced their Hollywood-owned opponents 3-1 on Monday evening, delivering a dominant performance that will send a clear message to the rest of League One.
Huddlestone retired after a long career and joined Manchester United’s U-21 squad as a player coach. The Red Devils prefer to have an experienced professional on the pitch with their academy teams to assist guide and develop their talent.
He has previously been with Derby County, Hull City, and Tottenham Hotspur, among others.
More experience behind the scenes in Birmingham.
While his management experience is limited, he had a crucial role as Manchester United’s player coach. For a club that takes pride in its youth development, being trusted in such a role demonstrates how well regarded he is.
Kieran McKenna and Michael Carrick have both performed well after leaving Manchester United’s coaching staff, and it may be a masterstroke for Davies as he seeks to compete with his squad’s high level of talent.