Pennant Targets Role As Coach

IT’S not just about playing football – that’s the message from former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder Jermaine Pennant as he ponders a move to Redditch United.

- David Lawrence

The 37-year-old has played in the Southern League Premier Central side’s opening friendlies and is considering a role with the club that could kick-start his own coaching career.

And Pennant, who played for Liverpool in their Champions League final defeat by AC Milan in 2007, says he’s ready to put something back into the game.

Speaking to The NLP, he said: “A lot of this is about starting my coaching badges and about Redditch as a football club – being part of the club and playing more of a role than being just a player. There’s more to it than just playing football.

“On the pitch I’ll be helping and advising the players as best as I can. Hopefully the more I get to know them, and they get to know me, then we can build a great relationship. It’s about mutual respect – ever since I’ve walked through the door here I’ve respected the players and they’ve respected me and that’s how it should be.