Former Coventry City figure in contention to join Middlesbrough as Rob Edwards delay revealed | OneFootball

Adi Viveash could be set to return to coaching after more than a year's break

Middlesbrough are close to confirming Rob Edwards as their new head coach, with the 42-year-old former Luton Town manager expected to be unveiled imminently.

According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, the delay in announcing Edwards’ appointment is due to finalising details regarding his backroom coaching staff.

Among those under consideration is former Coventry City assistant manager Adi Viveash, who could be set to return to coaching at the Riverside Stadium.

Adi Viveash linked to Middlesbrough role as Rob Edwards appointment nears completion

Viveash, 55, spent nearly seven years at Coventry as Mark Robins’ trusted deputy, helping guide the club from League Two to the Championship and playing a key role in multiple Wembley appearances.

He left the Sky Blues in 2023 amid controversy, with club owner Doug King later citing a breakdown in his relationship with Robins as central to the dismantling of the club’s successful coaching structure.

Speaking recently on the That Cov Pod podcast, Viveash addressed the circumstances of his exit for the first time, revealing the “enormous hurt” caused by “unfactual” social media speculation that questioned his character.

“I’m a very loyal person and a very dedicated person,” he said.

“Unfortunately, a lot of absolute rubbish was spread online which caused enormous hurt to my family.”

Viveash may now be looking to dust himself down and restart his coaching career alongside Edwards at Middlesbrough, who are poised to imminently reveal the announcement of Carrick's successor.

Rob Edwards set to lead new era at Middlesbrough with trusted backroom options

Despite his departure from the Sky Blues under a cloud, Viveash remains a highly regarded coach.

His potential reunion with Edwards comes after their respective teams faced off in the 2023 Championship play-off final, where Edwards’ Luton edged Coventry on penalties to secure promotion to the Premier League.

Edwards has been out of work since being dismissed by Luton in January, following an unsuccessful Premier League campaign and a difficult return to the Championship.

He is expected to bring former QPR and Rangers coach Harry Watling with him to the Riverside, with Viveash a possible addition to bolster experience and Championship know-how.

Middlesbrough parted ways with Michael Carrick earlier this month and, with Steve Cooper previously considered, appear set to turn to Edwards as they aim to push for promotion in 2025/26 after missing out on a play-off finish last time out.