Phil Neville appointed England Women head coach until end of 2021 European Championship

Phil Neville has been confirmed as the new manager of the England women’s team despite having no previous experience of working within the women’s game.

The former England, Manchester United and Everton defender has worked only as an assistant manager before in his coaching career, but the Football Association has decided he is the best person to lead the Lionesses in their bid to win the World Cup.

England are currently ranked third in the world and will be among the favourites to become world champions in France next year.

Neville has previously worked as a coach at Manchester United, Valencia, as well as with the England Under-21s and his appointment is a leftfield one given he would appear to have little experience of women’s football.

The 41-year-old replaces Mark Sampson, who was sacked last year following allegations of racism by England international Eni Aluko and accusations of inappropriate relationships with his players during his time at Bristol Academy.

Interim manager, Mo Marley, who took charge of the team following Sampson’s controversial departure, is expected to return to her previous role in charge of the Under-19 squad.

Although there were several potential appointments currently working within the women’s game, the FA have instead turned to Neville. That has raised eyebrows and has been perceived as a slight on those who have spent their entire career coaching in women’s football.

"This squad's on the verge of something special and I believe I can lead them to the next level," said Neville, who met the players for the first time at their warm weather training camp in Spain on Tuesday. “I am honoured to be given the chance to lead England.

"With the new coaching team we are putting in place, we can help the players build on their great progress in recent years.

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"I can’t wait to get out on the training pitch and down to work with an elite group of players at the top of their game.

"I am also passionate about working within the wider set-up at St. George’s Park, with influential people such as Mo Marley and Casey Stoney, and with the support of Baroness Sue Campbell and the wider women’s game.

"There is a commitment to excellence that has paid dividends in recent years and I know we can continue the great growth of women’s football inspired by the Lionesses.

"There is no greater honour than representing your country and it will be a privilege to do it again."

The FA said on its website: “Neville is a Uefa Pro Licence holder and was previously first-team coach at Manchester United and Valencia.

“Having also worked with England Men's Under-21s, he impressed The FA with his coaching expertise, his vision for the future and his determination to build on the Lionesses’ rapid rise to be ranked third in the world after successive semi-final appearances at the 2015 World Cup and the 2017 European Championship.”