Keith Downing takes up new coaching role after recent departure from Bristol City

Keith Downing has become the first-team coach at Plymouth Argyle, just a few months after leaving Bristol City.

The 56-year-old who was assistant head coach to Dean Holden left Ashton Gate in October, but now has a new coaching opportunity.

After Steven Schumacher’s recent appointment as manager at Home Park, they have recruited the experienced coach to assist him.

Steven Schumacher said to Plymouth’s official club website: “We are delighted that Keith has joined the coaching staff at Argyle.

“He is hugely experienced and his knowledge and reputation in the game is first class. “I am looking forward to working alongside him, and I know he will help me to improve as a coach and a young manager.”

The appointment could be linked to Downing previously working with their Director of Football Neil Dewsnip, who worked with him in the England youth set up.

Downing had been with the young Three Lions for the past five years before joining the Robins in August 2020.

Neil Dewsnip said: “I have known Keith personally and professionally for a number of years. I have worked with him through the England youth set-up and had the pleasure of winning the under-19 European Championships with him.

“I can’t think of anyone better to help Steven through the early stages of his managerial career. “He has a wealth of experience and I have no doubt he will be incredibly supportive of Steven and Argyle progression.”

As well as a new opportunity for Keith Downing, one could be on the horizon for another coach who departed Nigel Pearson’s coaching staff earlier this year.

Paul Simpson has been linked with the vacancy at League One strugglers Doncaster Rovers, with the Yorkshire club conducting interviews this week.

Simpson is second favourite for the job at the Keepmoat Stadium with the bookmakers but is behind Bristol Rovers legend Paul Trollope.

The 55-year-old, who will have crossed paths with Downing both at City and in the England Under-21 setup has not been involved in club management since February 2012 following a brief spell at Northwich Victoria.

He previously managed Rochdale and Carlisle United as a player-manager before taking up the reins at Preston North End and later Shrewsbury Town, which was his last stint in management in the Football League.