Tom Huddlestone leaves player-coach role with Man United U21s, revealing what he learned and had ‘taken for granted’ as a player after ‘remarkable growth’ at the club
- Tom Huddlestone has left Manchester United after two seasons with the reserves
- The 37-year-old implored players to take on the role of player-coach at the end of their careers
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Tom Huddlestone has announced that he has left Manchester United after spending two years with the club’s under-21 side.
The 37-year-old arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 to serve as player-coach for United’s youth squad, replacing his former Hull teammate Paul McShane in the role.
The former Tottenham midfielder did not make a senior appearance during his time at United but has featured as a substitute for Travis Binnion’s U21s on a number of occasions this season.
In February, Huddlestone started against Manchester City in Premier League 2 and played the full 90 minutes as part of a side where only one of his team-mates had even been born when he made his senior debut.
After Ethan Wheatley had given United the lead, Huddlestone rolled back the years and scored a trademark thunderbolt from the penalty area as United defeated their rivals 2–1.
Tom Huddlestone has announced his departure from Man United after two seasons at the club
The 37-year-old was player-coach for the U21s under youth team boss Trevor Binnion (left)
In a post on social media, Huddlestone insisted it had been an ‘incredible’ experience watching his playing career while working as a youth team coach.
‘Today is my last day at this incredible football club.’ Huddlestone wrote further Instagram.
“Over the past two seasons, I have experienced remarkable growth and valuable learning experiences, both on and off the field.
“Every day I have had the privilege of learning from great people and gaining insight into all aspects of player development and well-being. Entering an office environment for the first time was quite a challenge, but from day one I felt welcome and comfortable. I am and will remain forever grateful for the smooth transition.
‘For any senior professionals considering a coaching career, I would strongly recommend taking on the role of ‘playing coach’ for a season or two towards the end of your playing career.
‘This experience was an eye-opener and revealed the dedication involved in planning, executing and analyzing each training session, as well as meticulously preparing the competition schedule.
“These efforts are often taken for granted as a player, so it was truly remarkable to witness and participate in this side of the game.
‘I wish the club every success in the future. Special thanks to everyone in the academy, both players and staff, especially Trau, Demps, Nick and Macca, for providing us with this incredible opportunity.
‘Good luck in the future #MUFC.’
Huddlestone started his career at Derby, making his senior debut in 2003 at the age of 16 and went on to make 95 appearances in all competitions with the Rams before joining Spurs in 2005.
In a post on social media, Huddlestone implored players to take on similar roles at the end of their careers
Huddlestone spent eight years at Tottenham and was part of the team’s cup-winning squad in 2008
Huddlestone spent eight years in north London and was part of the 2008 cup-winning squad while also winning four England caps.
After leaving Spurs, Huddlestone enjoyed two spells at Hull City and a return to Derby before joining United.
