Premier League cult hero Jason Puncheon lands new job after coaching four Cypriot clubs

Jason Puncheon has broken new ground in his post-playing career.

The Crystal Palace cult hero has been appointed as the Head of Football Operations and Co-Owner of Arabian Falcons, who compete in the UAE Second Division and were founded in 2023.

“I believe in a clear football vision built on structure, development, and ambition,” Puncheon said in a statement.

“I’m looking forward to the journey ahead.”

Club president Ailan Al Mheiri added: “We are excited to welcome a new member whose skills and energy will bring great value to our team.

“We look forward to achieving great success together.”

Puncheon is not the only notable Englishman at the club, with former Premier League midfielders Ravel Morrison and Jonjo Shelvey on the books in the playing squad.

The Falcons are managed by Harry Agombar, who spent time in Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur’s respective academies.

Puncheon’s curious coaching career

For Puncheon, the role marks a transition away from the dugout.

Shortly after he called time on his playing days in 2023, in July of that year Puncheon was appointed as manager of Cypriot club Pegia 2014.

Puncheon lasted just 18 games in the post, departing in January 2024.

He wasn’t out of work for long, as Puncheon joined AEZ Zakakiou, another Cypriot club, one month later.

However, Puncheon’s stint was brought to an end after just seven games, none of which he won.

Puncheon was handed his third managerial role by Ayia Napa FC in October 2024, only to leave just two games and 21 days into his tenure via mutual consent.

Unlike his stint with AEZ Zakakiou, Puncheon tasted victory in both of his matches in charge of Ayia Napa, meaning he departed with a 100 per cent record.

Puncheon was subsequently appointed manager of Akritas Chlorakas just one day after his exit from Ayia Napa, marking the fourth Cypriot club of his coaching career.

The 39-year-old oversaw 21 fixtures, recording 14 wins and seven defeats.

Who did Puncheon represent during his playing days?

As a player, Puncheon finished with 204 Premier League appearances to his name where he registered 24 goals and 19 assists.

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An impressive 153 of those top flight appearances were made during his six-season stint with Palace.

At Selhurst Park, Puncheon helped the team to an FA Cup final berth in 2016. He scored in the final, only for Palace to be beaten by Manchester United after extra-time.

Puncheon endeared himself to football fans as a whole in 2013 when at Southampton as he ran off the pitch mid-match to take a toilet break.

A loan spell with Huddersfield Town followed his time at Palace before a brief stint at Cypriot powerhouse Pafos FC followed in August 2019.

Puncheon also enjoyed stops at Wimbledon and the MK Dons.