Key Aston Villa Coach Leaves Role Due To Family Illness

Aston Villa set-piece coach Austin MacPhee has stepped down from his role with the Scotland national team.

The 44-year-old has reluctantly made the decision because of his father’s illness. He intends to spend more time with family while also focusing on his job at Villa.

Unai Emery’s side are playing at least eight Champions League games this season, on top of their domestic duties in the Premier League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

MacPhee has been a key part of Steve Clarke’s backroom team for three years with Scotland. He went to Euro 2024 with the national team, who like Villa have also seen the rewards from his work.

The Tartan Army scored 12 goals from set-pieces in 21 competitive games since MacPhee joined the set-up.

MacPhee joined Villa in the summer of 2021 following roles at FC Midtjylland, Hearts, St. Mirren and Cowdenbeath.

He has also worked with the Northern Ireland national team in a wide-ranging coaching career.