Former Reading coach John O'Shea has joined Wayne Rooney's coaching staff at Birmingham City.

The former Manchester United defender ended his playing career in Berkshire, playing 11 times, before retiring and joining the coaching staff at the SCL Stadium.

Highly thought of during a two-year stint on the sidelines, the 42-year-old has since spent time at Stoke City and with Republic of Ireland squads.

England legend Ashley Cole will join Rooney and O'Shea on the touchline at St Andrew's, along with Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth from DC United.

Manchester United's record goalscorer replaced John Eustace at Blues following a takeover by an American consortium, including NFL icon Tom Brady.

His first match in charge is against his former assistant coach, Liam Rosenior, at Hull City.

Reading Chronicle:

Rooney commented: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected. I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.

“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the First Team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals. I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.

“I’ve played at St. Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us. My job is to elevate the Club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver.”