POWYS born and raised former Wales international Carl Robinson has been unveiled as part of the Birmingham City management team led by newly appointed boss Wayne Rooney.
The ex-Manchester United and England star penned a three and a half year deal at the English Championship club this week following his departure from MLS side DC United.
Llandrindod Wells born Robinson forms part of a backroom team which also includes ex-Chelsea star Ashley Cole, former Manchester United defender John O'Shea and Pete Shuttleworth who has worked alongside Rooney since his days at the helm of Derby County.
During a 16 year playing career the midfielder made more than 400 appearances in spells at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Shrewsbury Town, Portsmouth, Sheffield Wednesday, Walsall, Rotherham United, Sheffield United, Sunderland, Norwich City, Toronto and New York Red Bulls while managing Vancouver Whitecaps during hirst spell in the USA.
Robinson also made 52 appearances for Wales.
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A stint in Australia saw Robinson manage Newcastle Jets and Western Sydney Wanderers before a short spell as assistant to Rooney at DC United.
Birmingham City co-owner Tom Wagner said: "Wayne is a born winner. We believe, with the support of his coaching staff, the club, and our supporters, he will take Blues forward on the next stage of our journey. His playing philosophy will help to realise the ambitions we have set for Birmingham City.
“Wayne has been preparing for an opportunity like this since he embarked on his coaching education whilst still a player at Manchester United. He and his staff have the full support of the Board and everyone at the Football Club.”
Birmingham City Chief Executive Officer, Garry Cook, said: “We are incredibly excited by Wayne’s arrival. When the opportunity presents itself to appoint a manager who shares your ambition and is both a student and a great of the game, then you act. This is what we have done."
Rooney said: “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.
“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.”
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