Slaven Bilic is utilitizing his network from his playing days in an attempt to improve his current employer West Ham United, and former England international Chris Woods is the man in the offing.
Woods, who picked up 43 caps between 1985 and 1993, has vast experience in terms of coaching goalkeepers, with both Everton, Manchester United and the United States' national team on his CV. His most recent appointment in the role was at United, as he was a part of David Moyes' team to move from Goodison Park, but the 55-year-old was replaced by Frans Hoek as United's goalkeeping coach when Louis van Gaal took charge at Old Trafford.
In other words, the two most profilic goalkeepers he has worked with are Tim Howard and David De Gea, which means he certainly has had a close-up look at world-class goalkeeping and the bumpy road to get there. The Spaniard might be the only player to represent the Red Devils in the title-winning 2012/13 winning campaign, and subsequent season of abyss, to actually improve during the time.
Looking forward to West Ham spell
However, Woods is currently looking forward to use his abilities and experience at the Boleyn Ground. Woods stated to the club's official website that he was "thrilled to be joining West Ham United. It is a club with a great history and tradition.
“It's certainly an exciting time for me to be coming to West Ham", the coach added before revealing desire to work in the goalkeeping department for the Hammers. He stated that he saw Adrian in action last season and "will be hoping to bring something to his game and the other 'keepers at the club."
During his playing days, the Lincolnshire-born former shotstopper enjoyed the training grounds and stadia of a number of clubs, including the likes of Queens Park Rangers, Norwich, Rangers and Sheffield Wednesday, before his retirement at Burnley in 1998. In the wake of his playing career, Woods still recalls fond memories of his current home ground: "I used to enjoy playing at the Boleyn Ground – especially in a night game under the lights."
Upon Woods' appointment, West Ham have as well confirmed the departure of four staff members at the club. These include assistant manager Neil McDonald, first-team coach Ian Hendon, goalkeeper coach Bobby Mimms and head of recruitment Martyn Glover.