Ex-county star Neville leaves post after Cup

FORMER Hucclecote Netball Club and Gloucestershire player Tracey Neville will leave her role as England head coach after next month’s World Cup in Liverpool in order to start a family.

The 42-year-old, who led England to Commonwealth gold in 2018, was appointed in 2015 before the World Cup in Australia.

“England Netball can confirm that Tracey Neville will step down as head coach after the World Cup in July after four incredible years with the squad,” the governing body said.

“Under her leadership the Vitality Roses have made unprecedented progress in the world rankings and at major tournaments, including the gold medal success at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.”

Neville, 42, is the twin sister of England Women football boss Phil Neville and the sister of Manchester United great Gary Neville.

“Being the Roses head coach is something I have relished and I am extremely proud to have had the opportunity to do,” she said.

“Over the last few months I have sat down with England Netball to look at how I could fulfil my role whilst taking into consideration my personal circumstances.

“My ambition to have a family is something I want to commit to after the World Cup.”

Neville, who made over 80 appearances for England as a player before a knee injury forced her retire in 2008, said she hoped to return to the role.

“The Vitality Roses’ future is paramount in my thoughts and plans and I will passionately and wholeheartedly continue to support them and England Netball,” she said .

“I will hopefully get an opportunity to lead again in the future.”

The World Cup takes place at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool from July 12-21 and England take on Uganda in their first match on the opening day of the tournament.