**Swansea City Unveil Fresh Coaching Structure Ahead of New Season**
Swansea City have formally revealed sweeping changes to their backroom staff, with significant appointments confirmed for the 2025/26 campaign. The Swans have brought in Darren O’Dea as assistant to current head coach Alan Sheehan, while Richard Stearman has secured a permanent position on the coaching team after an impressive short-term stint last term.
O’Dea’s arrival from Celtic marks a notable addition to the club’s technical team. At his previous post, O’Dea served as professional player pathway manager and ‘B’ team coach at Celtic, working closely with ex-Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers. The 38-year-old’s hands-on coaching background at a high level is expected to boost both on-field performance and behind-the-scenes professionalism at Swansea.
Meanwhile, Stearman, who initially joined on a temporary contract in March, steps up to a first-team coach role on a more enduring basis. His impact during the final months of last season did not go unnoticed, earning praise from both staff and players alike. Stearman and Sheehan’s relationship goes back to their playing days at Leicester City, and it is hoped that this pre-existing rapport will translate effectively into their collaborative coaching efforts.
Completing Sheehan’s revamped coaching group are head of goalkeeping Martyn Margetson and Kris O’Leary, who continues as first-team coach. The blend of seasoned expertise and fresh ideas among these staff members is seen by Swansea’s hierarchy as vital to the club’s ambitions in the Championship.
Head coach Alan Sheehan expressed his enthusiasm at the appointments, stating, “I am delighted to have Darren and Richard join the coaching staff. They are both individuals with outstanding professionalism and a work ethic that demands respect. Their enthusiasm for joining Swansea has been clear from the start, and I believe they are the right people to help push the club forward.”
Director of Football Richard Montague also reflected on the new appointments, describing O’Dea and Stearman as “important additions” who complement Sheehan’s approach. He elaborated, “Darren brings a wealth of elite coaching experience and deep knowledge of player development at a top club. As for Richard, his contribution this past spring was exceptional. The squad responded well during his temporary spell, and we are confident he will flourish in a permanent role.”
However, the changes in the coaching set-up have also brought an exit. Mark Fotheringham, who joined alongside Stearman earlier in the year, has now left Swansea. Sheehan voiced gratitude for Fotheringham’s contribution, remarking, “We’re thankful for the role Mark played during the closing stages of last season. Our parting was amicable, and I wish him all the best for what lies ahead. He will always be welcome back at the club.”
Montague echoed these sentiments, adding that Fotheringham brought “great energy” to the group and predicting a bright future for him in coaching circles. “We look forward to watching his journey and wish him well in his next steps,” Montague added.
These coaching moves come at a pivotal moment as pre-season preparations loom. The club’s leadership is confident this refreshed set-up will give Swansea City a solid platform for success in the challenging months ahead. Supporters will be keenly watching to see how these new appointments shape the team’s fortunes as the 2025/26 season unfolds.