July 10, 2023 at 10:29PM
Ian Foster, the former manager of England Under-20s, has left his role at the Football Association (FA) to embark on a new journey as assistant manager to Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. Foster’s decision to join the Saudi club comes on the back of his successful stint with the England Under-19s, whom he led to victory in the European Championship last year.
The departure of Ian Foster from the FA marks the end of a fruitful six-year association that saw him work with various age groups within the English national setup. Having previously served as a first-team coach at Portsmouth, Foster joined the FA as an assistant to Steve Cooper, contributing to England’s Under-17 World Cup triumph. He subsequently held the position of assistant to Phil Neville with the England women’s team, showcasing his versatility and valuable experience in different coaching roles.
An undeniable highlight of Foster’s tenure at the FA was his remarkable achievement with the England Under-19s. In 2020, he guided the team to a sensational victory in the Under-19 European Championship. This sterling accomplishment not only showcased Foster’s tactical acumen and leadership skills but also emphasized his ability to nurture and develop young talent.
One of the key reasons behind Foster’s decision to join Al-Ettifaq is the allure of the “family feeling” within the Saudi Arabian club, as emphasized by Steven Gerrard. The former Liverpool captain, who himself recently took charge as manager at Al-Ettifaq, has been building a strong and cohesive team atmosphere. Gerrard’s invitation to Foster highlights the trust and respect he holds for the English coach, as well as the ambition and vision they share for elevating the club’s position in Saudi Arabian football.
As Foster embarks on this new chapter of his coaching career, the move to Al-Ettifaq presents him with an exciting opportunity to further prove his credentials in a different footballing landscape. Joining forces with a man of Gerrard’s stature and leadership qualities can undoubtedly provide Foster with invaluable mentorship and a chance to thrive in a fresh and dynamic environment. Additionally, the experience of working in a top-tier league like the Saudi Professional League will present Foster with new challenges and a chance to broaden his footballing knowledge.
The post “Ian Foster Joins Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq After England Under-19s Euro Triumph” first appeared on the European News Global.
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