Bristol Rovers manager Matt Taylor believes Lee Cattermole “fits the bill” for his coaching team ahead of their tough test away at Birmingham City in League One.
The Englishman was predominantly a midfielder, which was where he played for Middlesbrough, Wigan Athletic, Sunderland and VVV-Venlo. He spent ten years from 2009-2019 at Sunderland and became captain, when selected by Steve Bruce in 2010. Overall, he made 346 club appearances and scored 14 goals over his 15-year career.
36-year-old Cattermole joins the club as a set piece coach, something that The Gas have struggled with so far this season. He adds to a backroom staff that already includes David Horseman and Wayne Carlisle.
We are delighted to welcome Lee Cattermole to our first-team coaching staff 👊
— Bristol Rovers (@Official_BRFC) December 12, 2024
“The club have advertised for a position within the coaching department,” Taylor said. “Obviously someone of Lee’s experience certainly fits the bill, he’s young in terms of his coaching career to date, but has played the game at the top level, and always led teams, been in a high position in terms of squads and changing rooms so we’re looking forward to what he adds to the group and ultimately what he adds to this group of players.
“Thursday was his first day…he’s certainly had to hit the ground running today, everyone has been making their introductions and then we’re going through a normal Thursday and when the dust settles, we will all get time to sit down with him and talk through each other’s expectations.”
This weekend Bristol Rovers take on third place Birmingham City, who are aiming for an instant return to the Championship after last year’s relegation. They have great backing behind them with the standout signing of Jay Stansfield from Fulham for over £15million.
💙 No wonder @BCFC fans adore Jay Stansfield! #EFL | #SkyBetLeagueOne pic.twitter.com/7tw5HMNev3
— Sky Bet League One (@SkyBetLeagueOne) December 7, 2024
“They’re favourites for a reason,” Taylor said. “Good players on the pitch, players that have played at a certain level previously and probably will do in the future as well. But also, a good style and a clear coaching aspect to it which has given them a structure to play to.”
