Tom Huddlestone has hailed an ‘eye opening’ first season coaching at Manchester United.
Manchester United hired Tom Huddlestone last summer in a player-coach role for the under-21 side.
He followed Paul McShane, who had occupied the role last season before coaching with the academy full-time.
It is unclear if Huddlestone will reprise the same combined player and coach position next season, but he is pleased with how the first 12 months have gone.
Tom Huddlestone hails first season
Tom Huddlestone wrote on Instagram that he found the role ‘enjoyable’ and praised the Manchester United staff.
He said: “What a great learning experience this season has been. After 18 seasons solely playing, it has been eye opening to see all the effort & preparation which goes on behind the scenes for each session and games.
“Unbelievable set of staff who have made my ‘transition’ season very enjoyable and straight forward.”
Huddlestone’s main task has been to learn as a coach, while also playing occasional matches to offer guidance on the pitch to young players at under-21 level, as an eligible older player.
Still only 36, he was playing in the Championship with Hull City just the previous season.
This past year he ended up making 15 appearances for Manchester United’s under-21 side, mainly from the bench.
He managed to provide three assists along the way too, with the United youngsters benefitting from having a former England international in the ranks.
While we presume Huddlestone may continue as a player coach for another year, if he does not, there is a chance United look to bring in another, as the role is viewed as a valuable one, while it is clearly a very useful gateway into coaching for professionals on the verge of retirement.
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