Forest Green Rovers have announced the appointment of Josh Bowen, son of their director of football Mark Bowen, as the new lead first-team coach. Bowen brings over six years of experience as Head of Performance at Reading to his new role at the Nailsworth-based club.
Rovers manager Robbie Savage expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, highlighting Bowen’s extensive background in football coaching: “Josh has worked with renowned managers like Sam Allardyce and Roy Hodgson and has 15 years of experience at the highest levels. We are thrilled to have him on board to bring energy, dynamism, and expertise.”
Savage added, “It was my decision to bring Josh in from day one. He will develop alongside us as we continue to cultivate an elite culture both on and off the pitch.”
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Bowen earned his UEFA A license in 2021 and has contributed to top English clubs, including Crystal Palace, West Ham United, and Stoke City. As part of the updated coaching structure, Savage outlined: “John McMahon remains my assistant manager, Josh Bowen is the lead first-team coach, Dan Watson is our goalkeeping coach, and Dan Connor will oversee defensive set pieces. Josh will be positioned higher during matches to communicate more effectively with the coaching team.”
This strategic reinforcement of the Forest Green Rovers' backroom staff underlines the club’s commitment to building a strong and dynamic football culture.