Phil Neville has been revealed as the new England women’s national team manager, the FA confirmed today.

The former Manchester United and Everton defender, who succeeds interim coach Mo Marley after the departure of previous permanent manager Mark Sampson, will be the person tasked with guiding the Lionesses to the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019™.

After calling time on a playing career that saw him win six English Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League with Manchester United, Neville was appointed as a first-team coach at the Red Devils in 2013 before a spell as assistant manager at Spanish La Liga side Valencia.

Neville also briefly took charge of English non-league side Salford City, the club he co-owns with United’s ‘Class of 92’ team-mates Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, in 2015. This is his first step into international management.

"I am honoured to be given the chance to lead England," Neville told the FA's official website. "With the new coaching team we are putting in place, we can help the players build on their great progress in recent years. This squad is on the verge of something special and I believe I can lead them to the next level.

"I can’t wait to get out on the training pitch and down to work with an elite group of players at the top of their game. I am also passionate about working within the wider set-up at St. George’s Park, with influential people such as Mo Marley and Casey Stoney, and with the support of Baroness Sue Campbell and the wider women’s game.

"There is a commitment to excellence that has paid dividends in recent years and I know we can continue the great growth of women’s football inspired by the Lionesses. There is no greater honour than representing your country and it will be a privilege to do it again."

The Lionesses, who occupy third in the FIFA/Coca-Cola Women’s World Ranking, currently boast a 100 per cent record on the road to France 2019 after high-scoring victories against Russia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kazakhstan. The Canada 2015 bronze medallists next face neighbours Wales in Women’s World Cup qualifying on 6 April at St Mary's Stadium, Southampton.