Former Super Eagles winger, Omatsone Folarin Aluko, has been appointed to the coaching staff of English Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town, as reported by Sportblog247.com.

Aluko, who had represented Nigeria after playing for England’s youth teams, scored two goals in seven appearances for the Super Eagles. He was included in the pre-selection for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations but missed the tournament due to injury.

The 35-year-old retired from professional football at the end of last season, having scored four goals and provided two assists in 62 appearances over four years for Ipswich Town, known as The Tractor Boys. According to the club’s official website, Aluko will now join Kieran McKenna’s coaching team.

Ipswich Town announced on Twitter:

“Welcome to the coaching team, Sone! Sone Aluko has started his position as First-Team Coach, while David Martin has joined in a role that will see him assist in goalkeeper development throughout the Academy pathway.”

Aluko expressed his excitement about the new role:

“It is a real privilege to start the next phase of my career by joining the first-team coaching staff here at the club. Learning from the manager and all the coaching staff here is a fantastic opportunity for me. It is a great time to be at Ipswich, and I’m really looking forward to helping the squad continue to learn and take on the challenge of the Premier League.”

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, who has been linked with high-profile coaching roles at Manchester United and Chelsea, shared his enthusiasm for Aluko’s appointment:

“We’re delighted to add Sone to our coaching team. His work ethic and values have been important for the Club over the last few years, and we know he will continue to bring those qualities to his new role. Sone has strong relationships with players and staff at the Club, and he will be a big addition for us.”

Aluko’s older sister, Eniola, is a former footballer who played 102 times for England at the full international level before retiring in 2020.