Former Middlesbrough midfielder George Boateng has joined Blackburn Rovers, the Championship club have announced.

The 43-year-old ex-Premier League star has moved to Ewood Park to join the club’s academy as their new U13s coach.

Having made over 500 appearances during his career, he became a favourite in England thanks to his spells at Aston Villa and Middlesbrough.

Boateng retired in 2013 and has since focused on coaching completing his UEFA Pro Licence and gaining experience in management in Malaysia where he also held a Director of Football role.

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph, the new academy coach said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking on this new role. 

“It’s a great environment here at Rovers to start my coaching career in England. 

“The philosophy and style of football here is what I believe in, so that made my decision quite an easy one.”

Blackburn’s academy is a category one facility, and as recently as the League Cup second round win over Lincoln last month, they had six academy graduates in their squad for the 4-1 victory.

The Verdict 

George Boateng has extensive experience in the top-flight and joining Blackburn’s academy is a move in the right direction for the club and the former player.

Having earned his UEFA Pro Licence, the former Holland international will be working with the next generation of Rovers players to help them learn and progress through the ranks at Ewood Park.

The experience he boasts will allow him to offer anecdotes and situations in football that he can help the young players with, not just on the pitch but off it, and for all age groups, including the senior side.

It’s a positive move all-round, and hopefully, he does well during his time in Lancashire.