New England coach Roy Hodgson has sprung a major surprise by appointing Gary Neville to his coaching team.

The former Manchester United defender has signed a four-year contract, which allows him to continue as a columnist for the Mail on Sunday and pundit for Sky Sports.

Neville will join Hodgson's team immediately and will be with the England squad next week as they begin preparations for Euro 2012.

Shock: Gary Neville will be part of Roy Hodgson's coaching staff

Neville confirmed his retirement from the game in February 2010, having played 602 times for United, and made 85 England appearances.

A member of that famed 'Class of 92', he was widely acclaimed as the best right-back of his generation.

He was viewed as likely management material but instead took a pundits' role, for which he has received widespread praise.

Whether Neville will receive criticism for this remains to be seen.

However, for now, he is just delighted to be back within the England fold ahead of Euro 2012.

Neville said: 'Roy asking me to be a part of his staff and to work with the national team is not only an honour but a very special moment for me.

'I had absolutely no hesitation in accepting this role and I am relishing the opportunity to work alongside Roy and the team at the Euros and through to the next two tournaments.'

Phil Nevillle, who assisted Stuart Pearce when he was England caretaker manager, congratulated his brother on his appointment, tweeting: 'Well done @GNev2 on his England role - very clever management by Hodgson!'

Neville will join coach Ray Lewington and goalkeeper coaches Ray Clemence and Dave Watson in Hodgson's staff at the European Championships.

The England manager said: 'Gary has achieved so much in the game as a player with Manchester United and England.

« Previous1234Next »