Blackburn Rovers confirmed today that their Academy Manager Bobby Downes is to leave the club by mutual consent.

Bobby joined the club in May 1997 and saw it through the conversion to Academy status and development of the Academy facilities at Brockhall Village that subsequently became the base for the senior squad.

Despite having to compete to recruit young players in the most competitive region in the country Bobby has seen players such as David Dunn, Martin Taylor, Jay McEveley, Jonathon Douglas, Sergio Peter, Paul Gallagher, Matt Derbyshire, Keith Treacy, and Martin Olsson all make the transition to first team level.

Everyone at Blackburn Rovers would like to thank Bobby for his dedication and commitment during his time at Ewood Park and wish him all the best for the future.

Head of Coaching Gary Bowyer will assume responsibility for Academy operations pending the appointment of an Academy Manager.



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