Downing Departs

Assistant Manager Keith Downing has left Argyle after a successful five months at the club.

Keith joined the Greens in December, shortly after the appointment of Steven Schumacher as manager, and brought a wealth of experience with him to Home Park.

With over 20 years of coaching behind him, in a variety of roles, he was a key member of Schumacher’s backroom team and was someone Steven was able to rely on for advice.

Keith signed for the Greens on a short-term deal until the end of the 2021/22 season and was a valuable member of the coaching staff as Argyle finished seventh in Sky Bet League One on 80 points.

Argyle’s Director of Football Neil Dewsnip said, “We are disappointed to be losing Keith.

“He is an extremely good and experienced coach who has made a massive impact since he has been at Argyle.

“Keith is someone I know personally and have worked with in the past and is extremely well respected in the game.

“He was excited to come in a help Steven out and was impressed with the set up and ambition at Argyle.

“He joined in December on a short-term deal, and we always knew that we would likely lose him in the summer.

“I would like to thank Keith for all his hard work and dedication since he had been at Argyle and wish him all the best for the future.”

Upon leaving Home Park Keith said, “I want to thank Neil Dewsnip and the board for the opportunity and wish everyone well for the future - there are great foundations being built.

“I have loved being at Argyle and think it’s an incredible club with incredible people.

“Steven is a really talented and progressive young coach, and it is a very, very good team.

“I am sorry we couldn’t cross the line, but we gave it a good go and I am very proud of that.

“We’ve had discussions over the last couple of weeks and the decision to leave wasn’t taken lightly.

“It has been tough geographically for me and my family and I have to make the right decision for them.

“Once you’re a Green you’re always a Green – there have been so many great memories.”

Everyone at Argyle wishes Keith well, and we thank him for his hard work and valuable contribution to the success of the team.