Gary Neville has signed a four-year deal to become a coach with England, and will be part of Roy Hodgson's backroom staff for Euro 2012.

The former Manchester United defender has been largely involved in the media since retiring from the game, but Hodgson has confirmed that Neville was his first choice of coach for the Three Lions.

"Gary has achieved so much in the game as a player with Manchester United and England," Hodgson told reporters, published by Metro.

"He has obtained UEFA coaching qualifications and will be tremendously respected by the players because of his vast experience as a player.

"At my first meeting with The FA, I explained that Gary was someone I wanted as part of my staff. I think it is very important we have a younger coach who knows the dressing room and is very experienced at international level.

"That he has represented England as a player at five major finals tournaments will make him an invaluable member of staff," he concluded.

Neville did no have reservations about accepting the role, and is looking forward to getting started.

"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," he concluded.

By Gareth McKnight

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