John Carver (born 16 January 1965) is an English former professional footballer who played as a defender, and is currently an assistant coach for the Scotland national team. He is most widely known for his extensive coaching career, particularly his long associations with Newcastle United in various capacities, including two spells as caretaker manager.
Playing Career
Carver began his career as a youth player at Newcastle United but did not make a senior appearance for the club. He went on to play professionally as a defender for a number of lower-league and non-league clubs. His playing career was modest and largely curtailed by injury. His senior club appearances included:- Gateshead (1983–1985)
- Cardiff City (loan) (1985)
- Carlisle United (1985–1987)
- Gateshead (1987–1988)
Coaching and Managerial Career
Carver transitioned into coaching after his playing career ended. His coaching journey has been extensive, primarily as an assistant manager, but also with caretaker management roles.Newcastle United
Carver's longest and most notable association has been with Newcastle United, where he served in numerous coaching roles over several decades:- Youth Coach: He began his coaching career in the club's academy, working with young players and progressing through various youth development roles.
- Assistant Manager: He had multiple spells as assistant manager, working under various managers. His first prominent stint was under Sir Bobby Robson from 1999 to 2004, during a successful period for the club. He returned as assistant manager under Alan Pardew from 2010 to 2015.
- Caretaker Manager (2004): Following Sir Bobby Robson's departure in August 2004, Carver took temporary charge of the first team for one match before Graeme Souness was appointed.
- Caretaker Manager (2015): After Alan Pardew left for Crystal Palace in January 2015, Carver was again appointed caretaker manager. He remained in this role until the end of the 2014–15 season, successfully guiding the team to avoid relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the season.
Other Coaching Roles
Beyond Newcastle United, Carver has held assistant coaching positions at several other clubs and an international team:- Leeds United (Assistant Manager, 2005–2006)
- Plymouth Argyle (Assistant Manager, 2007)
- Sheffield United (Assistant Manager, 2007–2008)
- Toronto FC (Assistant Manager, 2008–2009) – He also briefly served as interim head coach for the MLS side.
- Omonia (Assistant Manager, 2013)
- West Bromwich Albion (Assistant Manager, 2017)
- Scotland National Team (Assistant Manager, 2020–present): He joined Steve Clarke's coaching staff and has been an integral part of Scotland's qualification for major tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2020 and UEFA Euro 2024.