FA has jobs to Phil after Neville seals Miami move
PHIL NEVILLE has left his position as England Women head coach to take over at Inter Miami, who are co-owned by his former Manchester United and England team-mate David Beckham.
After the 43-year-old was named as coach of the Major Soccer League side, Beckham said: ‘Anyone who has played or worked with Phil knows he is a natural leader, and I believe now is the right time for him to join.’
Neville had not been due to leave the Lionesses until the summer, with Holland boss Sarina Wiegman lined up to replace him, but the Football Association says it will ‘shortly’ name an interim boss.
The FA must also decide who will lead Great Britain’s team at this summer’s Olympics in Tokyo, a role Neville was expected to fulfil before agreeing to succeed Diego Alonso in Miami.
Neville said: ‘This is a very young club with a lot of promise and upside, and I am committed to challenging myself, my players and everyone around me to grow and build a competitive soccer culture. It has been an honour to manage England and I have enjoyed three of the best years of my career with the FA and the Lionesses.
‘The players who wear the England shirt are some of the most talented and dedicated athletes I have ever had the privilege to work with.
‘They have challenged me and improved me as a coach, and I am very grateful to them for the fantastic memories we have shared.’
Under Neville’s leadership, England lifted the SheBelievesCup for the first time and reached the World Cup semifinals while he also guided Team GB to qualification for the Olympics.
However, the Lionesses have lost seven of their last 11 games including a disappointing defence of their SheBelieves Cup crown.
Director of women’s football Sue Campbell said: ‘I want to pay tribute to Phil for his significant contribution during his three years with the FA.
‘He has used his platform to champion the women’s game, worked tirelessly to support our effort to promote more female coaches and used his expertise to develop many of our younger players.’
England captain Steph Houghton tweeted: ‘Can’t thank you enough for everything you have done for me and this team on + off the pitch Boss over the last 3 years! Thanks for pushing us to be the best everyday!’
I’m grateful to the England players who challenged me and improved me as a coach