Manchester United academy graduate James Chester is gaining experience in coaching within the club’s youth setup. Chester featured in the FA Youth Cup final in 2007, earned recognition as United’s academy Player of the Year from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and made his senior debut under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2009. The Warrington-born defender departed for Hull City in 2011 for a fee Ferguson described as ‘an absolute steal’.
He went on to turn out for West Brom, Aston Villa, Stoke City, Derby County and Barrow before hanging up his boots earlier this year following a spell with Salford City. Following his retirement, Chester received an invitation from close friend Paul McShane to observe academy training sessions.
Despite McShane’s departure from United this summer after five years with the academy, Chester was asked to begin his coaching journey by working alongside the Under-15s and Under-16 squads.
Chester has returned to Carrington on a voluntary basis, and the former centre-back is contributing three sessions per week with the U15s and U16s – sharing his professional experience.
The 36 year old confirmed his retirement in January and is believed to be considering his options for the future, though he is relishing the opportunity to coach whilst pursuing his UEFA B Licence.
Manchester United’s academy has seen a significant boost in recent years, with former graduates returning to Carrington to take up coaching roles.
This arrangement allows the young talents to learn from those who have had Premier League experience, creating a win-win situation for all involved.
Chester was part of a gifted United squad that made it to the 2007 Youth Cup final, playing alongside notable names such as Danny Welbeck, Danny Drinkwater, Sam Hewson and Febian Brandy.
Sir Alex Ferguson gave Chester his first taste of the first team in the League Cup semi-final second leg against Derby in January 2009, where he replaced Gary Neville with just 20 minutes left on the clock.
Chester also played a key role in Hull City’s journey to the 2014 FA Cup final against Arsenal, scoring the opening goal within the first four minutes. He boasts over 500 competitive appearances and has earned 35 caps for Wales.
The United academy product played every minute for Wales during their impressive run to the semi-finals of Euro 2016.
