Phil Neville's England reign a costly mistake and it may get more messy | Suzanne Wrack


Issues the FA was willing to overlook have come home to roost and a quick decision must be made over the Tokyo Olympics

The appointment of Phil Neville as manager of the Lionesses was shambolic. Not on the initial shortlist, or even longlist, rumour has it Neville’s name was dropped into the ring by a jesting journalist. As candidate after candidate fell out of the running, the Football Association’s handling of Mark Sampson and the increased scrutiny associated with the role putting some off, suddenly Neville was appointed.

Unveiling a manager with no experience in women’s football raised eyebrows but was not necessarily a problem, in fact his lack of baggage within the women’s game was a plus. Giving the top job to a man with limited managerial experience was a much bigger problem.

Related: Phil Neville to step down as England Women's manager next summer

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