Aston Villa have confirmed that Gordon Cowans has exited his role with the academy at the Championship club with immediate effect. He had been in the job for the last 18 years and has previously been a player and coach with the first team squad.
Cowans, who turns 58 next month, was part of the squad which won the league title in 1981 and then the European Cup the following year. Owner Dr Tony Xia confirmed on Twitter that ‘Sid’ ‘wanted to retire for himself’ but he will ‘help the club all the time’.
Checked. Sid wanted to retire 4himself but he'll help the club all the time. Regretful that 1Tony came 1left!#UTV https://t.co/dxcLpsrAWM
— Dr. Tony Xia (@Dr_TonyXia) September 8, 2016
Cowans began his playing career at the club and enjoyed two more spells at Villa Park in the 1980s and 1990s. In addition to his role within the academy setup, he was also the First-Team Coach and Assistant Manager at various points.
The former midfielder says he is sad to be leaving the club, but he will forever remain a fan and is looking forward to a watching brief from now on,
“All good things must come to an end someday and it is right to make this change at this time.
“Although I will no longer be turning up to work for this great club, I will remain a lifelong supporter.
“Under the guidance of the new owner and his management team, I look forward to many years of supporting Aston Villa from the stands as we start the climb back towards our rightful position as the area’s premier football club.
“I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to our wonderful fans who have given me such tremendous support over the years and helped me through the more challenging times in my career. You will always be in my heart.”
