October 23, 1984, marked the birth of Keiren Westwood in Manchester, a goalkeeper whose professional journey spanned multiple tiers of English football before moving into coaching. Though born in England, he utilized his Irish heritage to represent the Republic of Ireland at the international level, eventually accumulating appearances in high-profile tournaments including the 2016 UEFA European Championship.
Early Career and Carlisle United
Westwood began his football life at Fletcher Moss Rangers before joining Manchester City. He did not make a first-team appearance for City, serving as an understudy to David James and Nicky Weaver. After an unsuccessful period at Oldham Athletic and trials at Bradford City and Accrington Stanley, he moved to Carlisle United. He eventually secured the starting position, playing 35 league matches during the 2005-06 title-winning campaign and earning a spot in the PFA Team of the Year for League One in 2008.
Championship and Premier League Stints
In 2008, Westwood signed a three-year deal with Coventry City, where he earned PFA Championship Team of the Year honours in his debut season and the club's Player of the Year award for 2009-10. He later moved to Sunderland in 2011 on a free transfer, making his Premier League debut against Aston Villa. After spells at Sheffield Wednesday, where he received multiple Player of the Year awards, he joined Queens Park Rangers in 2022 and later signed a short-term contract with Crewe Alexandra in 2024.
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Eligible through his grandparents from Wexford, Westwood debuted for the Republic of Ireland in 2009 against Nigeria. He featured in a competitive qualifier against Macedonia in 2011 and was included in the squad for UEFA Euro 2012. He eventually reached 15 international appearances by 2013 and participated in the Irish team that reached the knockout phase of the 2016 UEFA European Championship.
Transition to Coaching
Following the conclusion of his playing career, Westwood transitioned into training and management. He established the Keiren Westwood Goalkeeper Academy in September 2024. Subsequently, on 27 November 2024, he accepted the role of head of goalkeeping at The New Saints.
Fast facts
- Born: 23 October 1984, Manchester
- Citizenship: Ireland
- Occupations: Association football player, goalkeeping coach
- International debut: 29 May 2009 against Nigeria
- 2016 Tournament: UEFA European Championship
- Coaching role: Head of goalkeeping at The New Saints
- Honours: 2011 Nations Cup winner
Questions readers ask
Did Keiren Westwood ever play in the Premier League?
Yes, he made his Premier League debut for Sunderland against Aston Villa on 29 October 2011.
Which international team did he represent?
He represented the Republic of Ireland, qualifying through his grandparents who emigrated from Wexford.
What is his current occupation?
He serves as the head of goalkeeping at The New Saints and operates his own goalkeeping academy.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player
