Former Rangers and Aberdeen star Sone Aluko has taken the next step in his career, joining Ipswich Town's coaching staff as a first-team coach.
Aluko, who competed for the newly-promoted English Premier League outfit between August 2021 and May 2024, announced his retirement from playing this summer.
The Nigerian international boasts a number of clubs on his CV after coming through the ranks in Birmingham City's youth academy.
He most notably gained recognition during a three-year spell at Aberdeen - famously netting in a UEFA Cup last-32 draw against Bayern Munich - before contributing towards a controversial transfer switch to Rangers.
The tricky playmaker went on to represent Hull City, Fulham, Reading, Derby County and most latterly, Ipswich, who claim "Aluko set consistently high standards and contributed significantly to the first-team environment."
He made 62 appearances across all competitions and was a key part of the team's back-to-back promotions.
Alongside his playing duties, Aluko also progressed with his coaching badges, working closely with his Ipswich teammates and the coaching staff. Now, the 35-year-old will put those skills to use, joining Kieran McKenna's backroom team at Portman Road.
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“It is a real privilege to start the next phase of my career by joining the first -team coaching staff here at the club,” Aluko told Ipswich's official website.
“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.”
“We’re delighted to add Sone to our coaching team,” McKenna commented.
“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.”
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