Middlesbrough Football Club has officially announced the appointment of Rob Edwards as their new head coach, marking the end of a three-week search to find a successor to Michael Carrick. Edwards, 42, has signed a three-year contract and brings with him a proven track record of success, most notably guiding Luton Town to the Premier League in 2023. He is joined by Adi Viveash and Harry Watling, who will serve as his assistants.
Edwards expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating that it is a "real privilege" to be appointed head coach of such a "great football club." He acknowledged the significance of the position and the importance it holds for the fans. Edwards also noted that he felt an immediate connection with the club and believes there is a "really good chance" for success at Middlesbrough. He praised the owner for providing coaches with time, support, and the necessary resources to achieve their goals.
Middlesbrough's decision to appoint Edwards comes after a disappointing campaign that saw them finish tenth in the Championship, recording their second-lowest points tally in the last decade. The club hopes that Edwards can replicate his success at Luton Town and transform them into genuine promotion contenders.
Before his successful stint at Luton, where he led the Hatters to a Championship play-off final victory against Coventry City, Edwards also guided Forest Green Rovers to League One for the first time in their history. His experience also includes coaching roles at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he served as Under-18s and U21s coach, as well as with England's U20s and U16s national teams.
Kieran Scott, Middlesbrough's head of football, highlighted Edwards' long-standing reputation and his impressive achievements at Forest Green Rovers and Luton Town. Scott noted that Edwards stood out among a pool of candidates and was particularly impressed by his vision for the club.
Edwards' coaching style is characterized by clarity, empowerment, and tactical education. He is known for building tactically astute teams with a strong team ethic. At Forest Green Rovers, he implemented a high-intensity, wing-back-driven system, while at Luton Town, his 3-5-2 formation emphasized disciplined pressing, overlapping wide players, and intelligent build-up.
Edwards' backroom staff also bring a wealth of experience. Adi Viveash has a strong background in coaching, including seven years as Coventry City's assistant manager, during which the team achieved two promotions, and nine years coaching with Chelsea's Academy. Harry Watling has also worked at several clubs, including Chelsea, Millwall, West Ham United, Queens Park Rangers, and Rangers.
Middlesbrough supporters will be eager to see how Edwards can revitalize the team and lead them back to the Premier League. His track record of success, combined with the club's commitment to youth development and the support of the owner, suggests that an exciting new chapter lies ahead at the Riverside Stadium. Edwards' first words as Boro boss reflect his enthusiasm and determination to make a positive impact, and fans will be looking forward to his full club interview where he will discuss his plans in more detail.
