Brown appointed as Reserve/Defensive coach

Following the recent promotion of Kevin Keen to First Team Coach, West Ham United is delighted to announce the appointment of Steve Brown as ReserveTeam/Defensive coach.

Steve enjoyed a long and successful playing career as a central defender with Charlton Athletic and Reading but had his playing days cut short through injury last year. Alan Pardew believes the 34-year-old will be a vital addition to his backroom staff.

"In this modern era of football I think defensive coaching is an area that is diminishing so it is something I was keen to strengthen here at West Ham," says the Hammers boss. "It is something that is undervalued and something I wanted to improve.

"Steve's experience from Reading and Charlton will bring a lot to this role. He is a man of immense character following the serious knee injury he suffered during his playing career.

"We know each other from Reading so he knows my outlook and philosophy well. He will add some steel to our staff and players and had a no-nonsense mentality to his football, which he will bring to his coaching. His defensive qualities will be used at Academy level, which links into his role as reserve coach.

"His defensive experience in the Premiership will be vital to his role, having been a valuable member of the defensive unit that got Charlton promoted to the Premiership and consolidated them as a top flight side."

By Miranda Nagalingam