Tommy Rowe was released by Doncaster Rovers last season. (Image: Getty)
Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up a surprise move for ex-academy ace Tommy Rowe.
The 35-year-old, once on the books at United, was released by League Two Doncaster Rovers last summer after a journeyman career in the EFL.
United’s interest, as reported by Manchester World, revolves around their search for a player-coach to help develop their under-21 side.
It’s reported that Rowe, if he’s successful with his trial, would link up with the under-21 team and play as an ‘overage player’ while using his experience to help coach the club’s next generation of talent.
However, as per the terms of the agreement, he wouldn’t be available to feature for the senior side.
Rowe would become the third player-coach to adopt the position at United in recent years, following in the footsteps of Paul McShane and more recently Tom Huddlestone.
Ex-England international Huddlestone spent two years in the role, making 24 appearances for the youth team and reporting to Nick Cox, United’s academy director.
Reflecting on his spell with the Manchester-based outfit, Huddlestone issued a statement on social media reading: “Today marks my final days at this incredible football club.
“Over the past two seasons, I have experienced remarkable growth and invaluable learning, both on and off the pitch.
Tom Huddlestone found success in a similar role with Man United’s under-21 side. (Image: Getty)
“Every day, I have had the privilege of learning from amazing people, gaining insights into all aspects of player development and well-being.
“Entering an office environment for the first time was daunting, but from day one, I was made to feel welcome and at ease.
He continued: “I am and will remain forever grateful for the smooth transition.
“For any senior professionals considering a coaching career, I highly recommend taking on a ‘playing coach’ role for a season or two at the end of your playing career.
“This experience has been eye-opening, revealing the dedication involved in planning, executing, and analysing every training session, as well as meticulously preparing for the games schedule.”
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The experience proved to be a valuable one for Huddlestone, as ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, Huddlestone has taken up a role working as the assistant manager at Wigan.
But the move to bring Rowe into the fold comes at a shaky time for the United academy set-up, with The Telegraph reporting six well-respected coaches were told they could be let go.
It comes amid cost-cutting exercises being rolled out by new decision-makers INEOS, with some of the coaches having spent over 20 years at the club.
It’s claimed the at-risk coaches were responsible for identifying and nurturing talents such as Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1928508/Man-Utd-trial-transfer-Tommy-Rowe