He didn’t actually apply for the job.
Phil Neville has been appointed manager of the England women’s football team on a five year contract that stretches until 2021.
Since Mark Sampson’s sacking, Mo Marley had been in temporary charge of the team until Neville’s appointment was confirmed by the FA today.
The former Manchester United and Everton player has no experience as a manager, but worked as assistant manager at Valencia during the 2015-16 season, when his brother Gary was head coach of the first team for a short period.
Despite that, Neville believes he can take the England women’s team to the next level:
“This squad’s on the verge of something special and I believe I can lead them to the next level”
“I am honoured to be given the chance to lead England,” he added. “With the new coaching team we are putting in place, we can help the players build on their great progress in recent years.
“There is no greater honour than representing your country and it will be a privilege to do it again.”
The Lionesses are currently ranked third in the world and are considered one of the favourites for the 2019 World Cup in France.
The FA’s director of women’s football, Baroness Sue Campbell, said: “I am really pleased we have got Phil and we will build a brilliant team around him that covers every base.” She cited his “enthusiasm, passion and desire for the role” as the most impressive parts of his interview.
As Louise Taylor reported in the Guardian, “It is understood the 40-year-old’s name was initially suggested to the Football Association in a light-hearted manner by a well known broadcaster at a drinks reception last month.”
Despite not applying for the job, he is excited to get started.
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