Rovers return for Academy coach Byron

BRISTOL Rovers 2007 play-off hero Byron Anthony has been appointed head of coaching at the club’s academy – nine months after he left to take up a position at Swansea City, writes James Piercy.

Anthony had been under-18 coach at the Swans, after being appointed in February, but his departure was confirmed by the Championship club last week.

He makes a swift return to north Bristol, having previously been coaching at his former club for six months before the Swansea move, working with academy manager Chris Hargreaves and focusing on the Under-14s, while also undertaking first-team matchday analysis.

Anthony made a total of 190 appearances for the club from 2006 to 2012, and was part of the starting XI that beat Shrewsbury 3-1 at Wembley for promotion to League One 14 years ago.

“I am delighted to announce that Byron Anthony will be joining the team as our new academy head of coaching,” said Hargreaves. “Byron has obviously worked with us recently, and as well as being a former player at the club he brings to the role a wealth of experience.

“We have already discussed several ideas to enhance what we are currently doing very well within the academy. We really want to develop our staff and players to be as competitive and successful as possible.”

Anthony, who secured his UEFA Pro License in 2020, replaces Adrian Harvie, who left the position earlier this year to spend more time with his family.

Writing on Twitter, Anthony said: “Thank you all for the kind messages. I am excited to be back at Rovers and really looking forward to getting down to work. See you at the next home game.”