Hodgson delighted for Neville over Valencia job

England coach Roy Hodgson is happy for Gary Neville after he took the Valencia job.

The pressures of the new role means the former defender has left his role as an analyst with Sky Sports with immediate effect, although the Football Association has confirmed he will continue in his role as England coach.

In fact, well-travelled manager Hodgson believes Neville's appointment at Valencia will benefit the national team moving forwards.

"I'm delighted that Gary has decided to take this excellent opportunity," he said.

"It's the right moment in time for him and I'm 100 per cent behind his decision to join Valencia as the new head coach.

"As far as I'm concerned, this will be an extra string to his bow and the experience he will gain working in the Spanish league can only be beneficial to our work together with the England team.

"Gary's commitment to the FA's preparations for Euro 2016 will not be in any way affected by the fact that he will be coaching abroad during the next five months.

"As someone who has spent a large part of my coaching career working abroad, I salute his decision and hope he gains as much from his time in Spain as I have done from the various countries which I have worked in.

"Like the rest of the England coaching staff, Gary will be fully committed to preparing for the Euros in France and our friendly matches which begin in March against Germany and Holland.

"I wish him and his brother Phil the very best of luck as they prepare for their first match versus Lyon in the Champions League."