Former Derby County man takes up new role at Blackpool

VaselineJune 25, 2024

0 2 minutes read

Former Derby County man takes up new role at Blackpool

Former Derby County, Coventry City and Bristol City defender Richard Keogh has taken up a first-team coaching role with Blackpool, it has been confirmed.

Richard Keogh announced earlier this summer that he would be hanging up his boots after a long career that saw him play for Derby County, Coventry City, Bristol City and more.

After bouncing around clubs in the latter years of his career, he completed his playing days at Forest Green Rovers. They were relegated from the EFL as veteran defender Keogh made 14 appearances in League Two.

Derby County man, ex Derby County, Coventry City, Bristol City takes up L1 coaching role after retirement — Image courtesy: ADAM HOLT/REUTERS.

Keogh’s deal with Forest Green expires at the end of this month, but although he is ending his playing career, it looks like he will remain in the game.

As announced on the club’s official website, Blackpool have appointed Keogh as first-team coach.

The former Derby County man returns to Bloomfield Road after spending just over a year with the club from 2021 to 2022. Keogh joins the team behind Neil Critchley, having played 31 times for the side during his only season there.

Who is this?

THE TEST STARTS!

Valuable experience

Keogh enters the coaching world with a long playing career behind him. That experience he has accumulated should stand him in great stead for a future in the game.

He spent many of those years as a true leader and captain. This should earn him a lot of respect in Critchley’s coaching staff, knowing how to motivate players and pick them up when they are down.

Image courtesy of MOLLY DARLINGTON/REUTERS.

What will be interesting to see is whether Keogh sees this as the start of a long journey in the dugout. Many ex-players are trying their hand at management and this first coaching role for the former Derby County skipper could be the first step on the road to being No.1 in the dugout.

For now though, Keogh will be looking to learn from Critchley and add real value to his North West set-up.

Next season for the Tangerines

Keogh saw former club Derby County win promotion from League One last season, while Blackpool missed out on the play-offs. They will be determined to improve next time, but this summer should be a fruitful one.

Gaps have opened up in the squad for Critchley to refresh his ranks and he will be eager to make the most of the opportunity to do just that.

The attack looks well stocked with Jordan Rhodes staying permanently and Ashley Fletcher signing. Otherwise, other outfield and midfield options may be on the radar.

Center backs are also likely to be on the shopping list. Anyone who comes there can definitely learn from new coach Keogh.

VaselineJune 25, 2024

0 2 minutes read

Former Derby County, Coventry City and Bristol City defender Richard Keogh has taken up a first-team coaching role with Blackpool, it has been confirmed.

Who is this?

Valuable experience

Next season for the Tangerines

Vaseline

Related Articles

Gallagher hires Marsh’s Stobart for upstream in three hires

Remember to bring your photo ID to the polling station to vote in the general election

Sandwell Opticians support local hospital charities

Bayern Munich and Tottenham brace for Manchester City as club prepares for £100m interest