Roy Hodgson has stepped down as England manager following their 2-1 defeat to Iceland sent them crashing out of the Euro 2016 on Monday.
England captain Wayne Rooney gave his side an early lead from the penalty spot but Iceland equalised two minutes later through Ragnar Sigurdsson, before goalkeeper Joe Hart’s mistake allowed Kolbeinn Sigthorsson’s to score the winning goal in the 18th minute.
According to Goal.com, the 68-year-olds contract was set to expire after the tournament and he has confirmed that he will step down as manager, along with his assistants Ray Lewington and Gary Neville.
‘My contract was always up after the Euros, so now is the time for someone else to oversee the progress of this young, hungry and extremely talented group of players,’ Hodgson said at a press conference.
‘When I arrived, I was told players didn’t turn up to play for their country or pulled out at the last minute, but I’ve not seen any of that. These players love to play for their country. Their commitment has been unquestionable.
The former Liverpool manager had been in charge of the Three Lions for four years after replacing Italian coach Fabio Capello. He also paid tribute to Neville and Lewington for their loyalty.
‘Ray [Lewington] and Gary [Neville] have asked for me to speak on their behalf. They arrived with me as part of my coaching team and they leave with me. I’d like to thank them for their dedicated support and the major part they played in the team’s preparation.
‘I’m sorry it’s had to end this way with another exit from the tournament but these things happen. All I can do is wish everybody the very best and hope you can still see an England team in a final of a major tournament very soon.’
‘They’ve been fantastic and done everything that’s been asked of them.”Finally, I’d like to thank all the support staff, players, the FA and, of course, the fans. It’s been a fantastic journey these four years and it’s one I’ll look back on with pride.
