Speed to step up coaching role

19 June 2009 14:49
Blackwell granted Speed permission to speak with Swansea over the managerial vacancy at the Liberty Stadium, but is delighted the former Wales international will stay after Paulo Sousa was announced as Roberto Martinez's replacement. Blackwell said: "Gary is going to be stepping it up on the coaching side of things next season. "Towards the end of last season he helped out when he was injured and his experience is always going to be a benefit for any club. "We're all very pleased he will still be at Bramall Lane next season." Former manager Bryan Robson brought Speed, 39, to the club in January 2008 and the former Leeds, Everton, Newcastle and Bolton player was a steadying influence on the Blades midfield before his season was cut short in November due to a back injury.

Source: Team_Talk