[Sport] Phil Neville steps down as head coach of England Women with immediate effect.

[S9OUL.]

Phil Neville is to step down as head coach of England Women with immediate effect, the Football Association has confirmed.

 

Neville, who was appointed in January 2018, originally announced last April that he would move on this summer. However, the former Manchester United and Everton defender has been approached by MLS side Inter Miami and is now expected to be unveiled as their new manager.

 

“His decision to leave now means the FA will shortly confirm the name of an interim head coach to lead the Lionesses in February with Sarina Wiegman assuming the full-time role following the Olympic Games in August,” read a statement on Monday. “A recruitment process had already been under way with assistant coach Rehanne Skinner’s departure to join Tottenham Hotspur last November.”

 

“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,” added Neville.

 

“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.

 

“I’d like to thank The FA for the tremendous backing they have given me, in particular Sue Campbell and my talented support staff whose energy, commitment and enthusiasm has been crucial to helping us make the progress we have. I wish England Women every success in the future and look forward to following their journey in the years to come.”