“What our club is about” – Man United Academy head explains decision behind rehiring 35-year-old defender as player-coach | OneFootball

Nick Cox explains the reason behind Manchester United hiring Paul McShane for the U-23 team

Speaking in an interview with the official club media, Manchester United academy head Nick Cox explained that innovation and ‘experience’ are part of the reason why the club rehired Paul McShane for their U-23 side.

McShane, now 35, came through United’s academy but departed the team without ever making a senior appearance for the club. Since his move to West Bromwich Albion in 2006, he has played for several English clubs.

He is perhaps best remembered for his time at Hull City, for whom he played between 2015-19. But at the age of 35, he is now back at Old Trafford to play with the Academy team once again.

Paul McShane is now a player-coach for the Manchester United U23 team.

That decision would raise eyebrows amongst some fans and it was an unconventional sightseeing the veteran defender play in two friendlies for the U-23s during this pre-season.

McShane is a useful addition

But Cox explained that the Irishman’s ‘experience’ and knowledge of the club made it an easy decision to appoint him. The academy head then added that McShane’s extra involvement with the U-23 team would be beneficial for the team.

Paul McShane during his time at Manchester United. (Image: as found on newstalk.com)

Cox added that the stalwart would train with the players in the training sessions to keep up the intensity. He can also observe more since he would be a part of the training routine, and would also coach from within the session as well.

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He concluded the lengthy interview, which can be found on the official Manchester United website, by mentioning that the decision to hire McShane in this position is true to the values of the club.