Former Premier League forward Charlie Austin has revealed he was unsuccessful in his bid to secure his first coaching position with his former club, Queens Park Rangers.
Austin, 37, recently concluded a professional playing career spanning two decades and expressed his desire to transition into coaching and help develop young talent. He shared on social media that he had applied for a role with the QPR Academy but was not selected to move forward in the hiring process.
"First job interview disappointment. Gutted not to progress to the next stage for @QPRAcademy coaching team. The club I really wanted to work with," Austin posted. "Will keep working hard and hoping my time will come. Good luck to whoever lands the role, what a club you get to join!"
Austin enjoyed multiple spells as a player at QPR, appearing 148 times and scoring 61 goals. His playing career also included stints with clubs such as Southampton, Burnley, and West Bromwich Albion.
Responding to fan inquiries, Austin clarified that his social media post was a reflection of genuine disappointment and not an attempt to leverage his past association with the club. He stated that he holds QPR in high regard and found the interview process to be fair and professional.
"No hidden agenda. Just honest disappointment at missing out on a role at a club I think highly of," he replied. "Nothing but respect for QPR, the process was fair and professional, everyone was great. As I said will keep working hard for my time to come! This just weren't my time."
Some supporters offered sympathy, with one commenter describing the decision as "diabolical" and another, comedian Seann Walsh, expressing confidence that Austin would "be back, mate. Destiny."
Austin is currently playing for semi-professional club Hungerford Town.