The career trajectory of Thomas William Cleverley transformed from a youth prospect at Manchester United into a journeyman midfielder and eventual manager. Born in Basingstoke in 1989 and educated at Hanson School, his professional path traversed multiple English clubs through a series of tactical loans before he transitioned into a coaching role within the professional football structure.
Development and Early Loan Success
Cleverley joined Manchester United as an 11-year-old trainee in July 2000. Before establishing himself in the first team, he secured vital experience across various tiers of English football. In early 2009, he joined League One side Leicester City, contributing to their promotion as champions. He followed this with a prolific 2009–10 campaign at Watford, where he scored 11 goals in 33 league matches and earned the club’s Player of the Season award. By August 2010, he transitioned to Wigan Athletic, scoring four goals in 25 appearances and securing their survival on the final day of the season.
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Upon returning to Manchester United for the 2011–12 season, Cleverley featured in the FA Community Shield victory. He remained part of the squad that secured the Premier League title in 2013. His international experience included representing Great Britain at the 2012 Summer Olympics. Later that year, he made his senior debut for the England national team. He was named in the provisional squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup but did not make the final selection.
Senior Career and Management Transition
Following a loan spell at Aston Villa during the 2014–15 season, his Manchester United contract concluded, leading him to join Everton. In January 2017, he returned to Watford, moving to the club permanently that July. He accumulated 146 appearances for the team until retiring in July 2023. His coaching tenure began at Watford in March 2024. In June 2025, he was appointed head coach of the EFL League One club Plymouth Argyle.
Fast facts
- Born: 1989, Basingstoke
- Youth club: Manchester United
- Premier League title: 2013
- International debut: 2012
- Retirement from play: July 2023
- Managerial appointment: June 2025
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Tom Cleverley manage?
He started his coaching career at Watford in March 2024 and became the head coach of Plymouth Argyle in June 2025.
Did Tom Cleverley play for the England national team?
Yes, he made his debut for the senior England national team in 2012.
