By Sam Preston

Lee Grant says he has completed his UEFA A coaching licence

Manchester United goalkeeper Lee Grant is preparing for a life after his football career comes to an end.

The experienced stopper says he has been taking his coaching badges.

In an interview with United’s official app, Grant said he has taken a significant step, gaining his UEFA A licence.

“I’ve been very much intent on progressing,” he said. “I’m now at a stage where my A Licence is in my back pocket. I’m hopeful to be on the next cohort for the Pro Licence.

“I’m currently studying for my LMA Diploma in Football Management, a diploma [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] has taken. He’s given me great encouragement in pursuing that.

“There’s a possible degree in business which is in the pipeline as well, so there’s lots going on. The club have supported me in all of those ventures.

“Even allowing me to coach when possible, althougn that’s not been possible yet because there’s been so much with pre-season and playing, which is great because I’m doing this role primarily to help the team, but of course with an eye on what’s coming next.”

Grant’s hybrid role

Grant is United’s fourth choice goalkeeper, so it’s no surprise that part of his role encompasses coaching.

Dean Henderson has been out all season so far, which is likely what Grant is referring to in terms of his involvement with the squad.

Maybe once Henderson is back, Grant will get more chance to do the coaching he needs to progress to the next level.

Perhaps he will remain at United as a coach when he does eventually retire, but it seems like he has plenty of options open to him when his playing days are over.

• Cristiano Ronaldo staying one more year would suddenly be a hard sell to Manchester United fans
• Star says Manchester United transfer is dream move, wants to work with Ten Hag for years
• James Garner sends message after first training session under Erik ten Hag
• 3 Manchester United players who will improve without Cristiano Ronaldo
• Ralf Rangnick may have already told Manchester United fans the reality of the Ronaldo situation

Sam Preston

Sam Preston is an NCTJ gold standard news and sports journalist who studied with the Press Association. He also has a 2:1 law with French law degree from the University of Birmingham, which included a year studying at Bordeaux Montaigne University. He is an FA Level 1 football coach who appeared on the BBC’s Victoria Derbyshire show in 2018 and has also written digital football content and match-day programme pieces for Colchester United, Mansfield Town and Stockport County.