FORMER ENGLAND DEFENDER Gary Neville has been appointed as a coach to the national team, the FA confirmed this afternoon.
Neville called time on his illustrious career with Manchester United last year and has been since working as a pundit for Sky Sports.
The 37-year-old, who played for his country in five major tournaments, holds UEFA A and B coaching licences and will link up with new manager Roy Hodgson ahead of this summer’s European Championships in a four-year deal.
“Gary has achieved so much in the game as a player with Manchester United and England,” Hodgson said in a statement released today.
“He has obtained UEFA coaching qualifications and will be tremendously respected by the players because of his vast experience as a player.
“At my first meeting with The FA, I explained that Gary was someone I wanted as part of my staff. I think it is very important we have a younger coach who knows the dressing room and is very experienced at international level.
“That he has represented England as a player at five major finals tournaments will make him an invaluable member of staff.”
Gary Neville added: “Roy asking me to be a part of his staff and to work with the national team is not only an honour but a very special moment for me.
I had absolutely no hesitation in accepting this role and I am relishing the opportunity to work alongside Roy and the team at the Euros and through to the next two tournaments.”
