Bristol Rovers icon Rickie Lambert has been appointed as a youth development phase coach at soon-to-be League One side Wigan Athletic, according to BristolLive.
Named in the Football League Team of the Decade, the successful goalscorer is set to take his first steps into coaching after a playing career with over 700 appearances for a host of EFL clubs.
Who Is Rickie Lambert?
The Englishmen is most famous for his stint with Southampton, where he rose up the leagues and made 235 appearances for the club. With over 50 goal contributions in the Premier League, while playing for the likes of Liverpool, Lambert did most of his work in League One.
Playing over 200 games in the third tier of English Football, the talisman scored 99 goals doing most of his damage with Bristol Rovers and the Saints.
Where Will He Be Set Up?
Lambert’s role is set to be involved with the Wigan academy team, with the former striker working with the 13-16-year-old teams. As the scouser is new to the coaching scene, he may have to work his way up the ladder if he wants to sit in the manager’s seat one day.
What Does He Have To Teach?
Not only was Lambert a profile goalscorer in his time, but he was also a playmaker and keen assister. During his 68 games with Rochdale, Lambert picked up 15 assists while playing as a number nine for them in League Two. His overall game was a good reason why he was able to play at the top level, as he may be able to teach the next generation a thing or two.
Writer’s View
Former players getting into coaching is no unusual thing, but it’s good to see Lambert wanting to work himself up the levels. Much like he did in his playing career, Lambert took no shortcuts when it came to rising to the top with his boyhood club Liverpool, and he will now look to do so with coaching.
