Phil Jones has left Blackburn to pursue 'another opportunity' away from Ewood Park.
The ex-Manchester United defender, who began his career at Rovers, returned to the club in February as part of Michael O'Neill's coaching staff.
Phil Jones' first senior coaching role has lasted just six months
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Phil Jones' first senior coaching role has lasted just six monthsCredit: Getty
This was Jones' first senior coaching role, who previously worked with the Red Devils academy after leaving the club as a player in 2023.
But the 34-year-old has now decided to bring his spell at Blackburn to an early end, departing after just six months as part of their backroom staff, with O'Neill having left in May.
Jones has been linked with Championship rivals Sheffield United, where Chris Wilder is revamping his coaching team.
'Enjoyed every moment'
Blackburn announced his exit in a statement, who praised the former defender for his 'valuable contribution' to the club.
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It read: "Phil’s passion for Blackburn Rovers was evident throughout his time back at the club and while we are naturally disappointed to see him leave, we respect his decision to continue developing his coaching career.
"Everyone at Blackburn Rovers would like to thank Phil for his professionalism and commitment, and wish him every success in the future."
Jones also shared a heartfelt message on social media, where he thanked the club for the opportunity.
He wrote on Instagram: "As my time at Blackburn Rovers comes to an end. I'd just like to say thank you.
"Returning to Blackburn was something I'd always hoped I'd get the chance to do, so I'm grateful it became a reality.
"I've loved being back at the club and have enjoyed every moment.
Phil Jones for Blackburn
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Jones made 40 appearances for Blackburn between 2009 and 2011Credit: Getty
Michael O'Neill Manager of Blackburn Rovers during the match between Millwall FC and Blackburn Rovers FC
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He follows Michael O'Neill in departing, who decided to focus solely on his role with Northern IrelandCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
"A huge thank you to Michael O'Neill for the opportunity to be part of his coaching staff and for bringing me back to where it all started."
Jones' exit leaves new Blackburn boss Tony Mowbray without a first-team coach following the departure of Steven Davis.
Davis followed O'Neill in leaving Ewood Park, while there also a vacancy as the club's Under-21s coach, with Gregory Vignal departing at the end of last season.
Rovers recently announced the return of Mowbray as their new head coach, who now begins his second stint at the Lancashire outfit.
The 62-year-old previously managedthe 1995 Premier League champions between February 2017 and May 2022.
Where next for Phil Jones?
As mentioned, Jones has recently been linked with Sheffield United, who are reportedly set for a shake-up to their coaching team.
Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder
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Chris Wilder is looking to guide Sheffield United back to the Premier League after a two-year absenceCredit: Getty
Reports claim Chris Wilder’s long-time assistant, Alan Knill, will be leaving Bramall Lane this summer.
Should Jones take his place in Wilder's backroom staff, it would be just his second senior coaching role.
After leaving the Man United as a free agent in 2023, he worked as a coach for their under-14 and under-18 sides, before joining Blackburn earlier this year.
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He did so alongside his PFA Business School course, for which he received a Diploma in Sport Directorship in September.
Jones retired from football in 2024, a year after leaving Old Trafford, and made 269 professional appearances for Blackburn and the Red Devils after making his senior debut in 2009.