Steve Round has been appointed as Technical Director at Aston Villa Football Club.
Highly regarded, Round has a wealth of experience in top flight football with a 26-year career in the game having previously worked for England, Manchester United, Manchester City football services, Everton, Newcastle United, Middlesbrough and Derby County.
The 45-year-old officially starts in his new role today (1st Sept) and will be based at the Champoinship club’s training ground, Bodymoor Heath.
Owner and Chairman Dr Tony Xia said: “I’m pleased to welcome Steve to Aston Villa. It’s an appointment I believe will be hugely important for the long-term global vision of the football Club.
“I’ve discussed at great length with Steve during meetings the way in which I’d like to see the 21st century football club move forward and he has the same ideas and principles.
“This role will play a fundamental part in how we drive the football club forward with data and technologies playing a central role in how we not only scout new players but also make the best of the talent we have at Bodymoor Heath both at first-team level and throughout our academy teams.”
Chief Executive Keith Wyness said: “The Technical Director position is one that is a vital role for the future of Aston Villa. With Steve we have over 20 years of Premier League experience with a black book that is the envy of many.
“Just as important is his vision for the way the club will start to recruit and develop at all ages throughout the club. His recent studies for an MSC in the Technical Director role showed his dedication and desire to develop this role and we believe he will be an instrumental part of the team.
“We look forward to Steve joining the new team and helping us move Villa back to where it belongs. He is a key part of the change we are bringing to Aston Villa.
Manager Roberto Di Matteo said: “I’m delighted to welcome Steve to the football club.
“It’s an important appointment for Aston Villa, a role that focuses on both the present and future and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
speaking of his appointment Steve Round added: “I am absolutely delighted to join such a great club with a superb support and historic tradition.
“The Technical Director role is something I’ve been working towards for a long time and once I had met the owner and seen his vision for the club I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
“There is a lot of hard work ahead but with the support of the Chairman and Keith Wyness, the expertise of Roberto and his excellent coaching team I am sure Aston Villa will re-establish itself as a highly successful football Club.”
