Gordon Cowans is taking on a more prominent role at Aston Villa.
Former Villa star Cowans steps up from his role as youth coach to become first-team coach.
Gerard Houllier has also announced Rafa Gonzalez as goalkeeping coach after previously working with the reserves, whilst Robert Duverne, who worked with the Frenchman at Lyon where they won back-to-back titles, has been appointed as coach/fitness coach.
Kevin MacDonald will now revert back to his old role as reserve manager after being in the spotlight for the last six weeks in the wake of Martin O'Neill's shock exit on the eve of the season.
