Manchester United handed a trial to former Doncaster Rovers winger Tommy Rowe in a pre-season friendly between a United 11 and non-league Chester earlier this week.
Manchester United handed a trial to former Doncaster Rovers winger Tommy Rowe in a pre-season friendly between a United 11 and non-league Chester FC earlier this week.
Rowe featured for the United team which was made up predominantly of Under-18s and Under-21s prospects.
The 35-year-old was released by League Two’s Doncaster Rovers last summer following a lengthy career in the English Football League.
Rowe wore the Manchester red for the first time in over 20 years, having initially been part of the United academy before moving to Stockport County at the age of 15.
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Rowe considered for hybrid role at United
According to The Sun, the 35-year-old is being considered for an academy player-coach role with the Red Devils for next season.
The hybrid role was first introduced by United in 2021 and has since been occupied by Paul McShane and Tom Huddlestone.
Academy graduate McShane rejoined the club for the 2021-22 season, making six appearances for the Under-21s before transitioning into a full-time youth coaching role at Old Trafford.
Thereafter, Huddlestone took on the responsibility but departed the club for an assistant manager position to Shaun Maloney at Wigan Athletic this summer.
Rowe is now the latest candidate being considered for the role following the conclusion of his second stint with Doncaster last month.
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Rowe to bring experience to new United role
If appointed, Rowe will assist academy players by coaching within training sessions and helping to drive daily standards both on and off the pitch at Carrington.
Being a former United academy player and nearing the end of his playing career while seeking to transition into coaching, Rowe seems to be an ideal fit for the hybrid role at Old Trafford.
With over 600 Football League appearances, he will bring a wealth of knowledge to share with United’s young talents and future stars.
Additionally, given the ever-changing squad makeup that Travis Binnion has to manage at the Under-21s level, a versatile and experienced player like Rowe could be crucial, as he can seamlessly fit into various roles depending on player availability.
The United 11 defeated Chester FC 3-1 on the night of his audition, suggesting that the 35-year-old may have already made a positive impact.