Red Devil: Neville had a successful club career with Manchester United

The move could prove to be a masterstroke. Neville's forceful personality is unlikely to leave any England player unaware of their responsibilities.

In addition, the fact he has been a team-mate of so many senior players, including likely Euro 2012 skipper Steven Gerrard, makes him the perfect bridge between squad and coach.

That should help avoid the kind of tensions in South Africa two years ago when England's players gather on Monday for the start of their build-up to Euro 2012.

Hodgson is due to announce his squad for the tournament in Poland and Ukraine on Wednesday.

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