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.
“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.”
Gary Neville agrees to join Hodgson as England coach
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.
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England Euro 2012 FA Gary Neville Roy Hodgson