Former Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole lands specialist coaching role at League One club

Former Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole has joined Bristol Rovers as a first-team coach. The 39-year-old called time on his playing career in 2020, having made 272 Premier League appearances across a 15-year career.

Since retiring, Cattermole has worked for his boyhood club Middlesbrough. He returned to Teesside in January 2022, working in their academy before managing their Under-18s side.

Cattermole was also part of the interim management team that took charge at the Riverside for five games after Chris Wilder was axed. He left the Championship club in 2023 but admitted he was actively looking for his next opportunity in coaching.

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A Bristol Rovers statement said Cattermole will "focus on the development and implementation of set pieces". “I am delighted to join the coaching team at Bristol Rovers," said Cattermole, whose previous clubs also include Wigan Athletic and Sunderland. "Having spoken to the guys here and [Rovers Director of Football and former Boro defender] George Friend, I very quickly got excited about the project being developed here at the club. Everything I’ve heard about Bristol Rovers tells me it’s an exciting time to be part of things here, and I’m looking forward to getting going.”

Rovers are currently languishing in the lower reaches of League One. They sit in 18th position, two points above the relegation zone.

Rovers, who have recorded just six wins from their 18 league fixtures this term, travel to title-chasing Birmingham City on Saturday.