The former Villa midfielder has praised chairman Tony Xia.
Former Aston Villa player Ian Taylor signs an autograph
Former Aston Villa midfielder Ian Taylor has backed the club’s appointment of Steve Round as technical director.
Round’s arrival was confirmed by owner Tony Xia in the early hours of Thursday morning, but it is understood that he had been assisting the Villans during the final few weeks of the transfer window (Birmingham Mail).
Roberto Di Matteo’s side ended the summer recruitment period strongly, adding Jonathan Kodjia – scorer of 19 league goals for Bristol City last season – and Albert Adomah – promoted with Middlesbrough – to a tally of seven new signings.
Jonathan Kodjia
Round brings with him almost two decades of experience at some of England’s top clubs, including Manchester United, and his appointment prompted Taylor to praise both Xia and CEO Keith Wyness on Twitter.
“Steve Round is a fantastic appointment!!!” he wrote. “Good work @Dr_TonyXia @retsub12!!”
Round previously worked on Steve McClaren’s coaching staff at both Middlesbrough and England and later worked at Newcastle United and Everton before following Toffees boss David Moyes to Old Trafford.
Former Everton manager David Moyes (right) with assistant Steve Round
Still only 45, Round, a former player with Derby County and Nuneaton Borough, also possesses a list of contacts which Wyness described as “the envy of many”.
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