Phil Neville ‘in contention for England U-21 role’

Matt Stead

Phil Neville has emerged as a contender to takeover the England Under-21 side if Gareth Southgate becomes senior boss.

Southgate is currently the senior side’s interim manager and is widely expected to be handed the role permanently – with Daniel Storey explaining why it would make a perfect fit here.

Aidy Boothroyd has been placed in charge of the Under-21s in Southgate’s absence, and has done his chances of landing the job no harm in guiding the side to three consecutive victories.

However, according to The Times, Neville has also been earmarked as a candidate by the FA’s technical director Dan Ashworth.

Neville has previously done some coaching work with the Under-21s, while the FA are eager to involve more former England players at St James’ Park.