Phil Jones has confirmed he will be leaving Blackburn Rovers after uncertainty around his future.
The former Ewood Park Academy graduate returned to the club as part of Michael O’Neill’s coaching staff. It was unclear whether Jones would continue in the new regime under Tony Mowbray.
However, the former Manchester United man and England international has confirmed he is leaving Rovers and won’t be continuing as first-team coach.
“As my time at Blackburn Rovers comes to an end, I'd just like to say thank you,” he wrote on Instagram.
“Returning to Blackburn was something I'd always hoped I'd get the chance to do, so I'm grateful it became a reality. I've loved being back at the club and have enjoyed every moment.
“A huge thank you to Michael O'Neill for the opportunity to be part of his coaching staff and for bringing me back to where it all started.
“Thank you also to all the players, staff and supporters for making my time here so enjoyable
“Wishing everyone at the club nothing but success in the future.”
Rovers responded with a statement issued on Thursday morning, suggesting it was Jones' decision to seek pastures new.
"Phil’s passion for Blackburn Rovers was evident throughout his time back at the club and while we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, we respect his decision to continue developing his coaching career," they said.
"Everyone at Blackburn Rovers would like to thank Phil for his professionalism and commitment, and wish him every success in the future."
As reported earlier this week, Jones is a wanted man, with Chris Wilder keen for him to be part of his refreshed coaching staff at Sheffield United. Alan Knill, Wilder’s long-time assistant, is set to leave the Blades in a shake-up at Bramall Lane.
Jones’ exit leaves Rovers very light on coaches. They are yet to announce who will support Mowbray, with Damien Johnson now the only remaining coach.
Ben Benson has been moved on, though not officially announced, and so a new goalkeeping coach will need to be appointed. Steven Davis returned to sole Northern Ireland duties alongside O’Neill and with Jones also departing, it means there will be a new-look coaching team at the Senior Training Centre.
Rovers are also looking for a new Under-21 head coach to take over from Gregory Vignal, who left at the end of the season. Whilst Mowbray might be a familiar face, Rovers will have some fresh voices for the new season.
Oxford United coach Mike Dodds, who was also first-team coach at Sunderland before taking the head coach job at Wycombe Wanderers, has been linked. He was at the Stadium of Light during Mowbray's time on Wearside.
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