Ben Wilkinson has joined Derby County's first-team staff
1. Derby County have officially confirmed the appointment of Ben Wilkinson as their new first-team coach. He leaves Manchester City to join manager John Eustace’s backroom staff at Pride Park.
2. This move marks a personal return to the club for the 39-year-old. Wilkinson is the son of former Leeds boss Howard and previously played for Derby.
3. He arrives with an impressive resume from his eight-year tenure at Manchester City. During this time, he helped develop top talents like Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers.
4. Wilkinson achieved historic success while managing Manchester City's under-18 squad. His team became the first to ever win three consecutive Premier League titles.
5. He later moved up to guide the under-21 Elite Development Squad. Wilkinson expressed great gratitude toward Pep Guardiola and City’s leadership upon his exit.
6. Wilkinson’s arrival causes a reshuffle in the existing Derby County coaching staff. Keith Downing will transition to the role of lead individual development coach.
7. Downing will lead a brand new department dedicated to maximising player potential. This initiative will specifically support the growth of both first-team and academy players.
8. The Rams have expanded their backroom departments in recent months. They have included scouting expert Ben Jones from the Football Association and data analytics lead Fabian Unwin from Chelsea.
9. **READ MORE: [Wilkinson joins Eustace staff](https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/derby-county-ben-wilkinson-coach-11038997)**