Ray Lewington joins England coaching staff on full-time basis

Ray Lewington has joined England's coaching staff on a full-time basis, signing a four-year deal.

The 55-year-old worked alongside Roy Hodgson during Euro 2012 but was set to return to his role as Fulham coach in time for the new season.

However, Lewington has now ended his long association with the west Londoners to take up a permanent role with the England team.

"I'm delighted to be joining Roy's England coaching staff permanently," Lewington said.

"I really enjoyed the experience at the Euros this summer and am looking forward to spending more time with the squad as we look to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.

"I would like to thank everyone at Fulham Football Club for such a wonderful time since I joined as a player in 1980.

"I have been coach, manager and assistant manager during my time here and this is a very special club full of great people dedicated to taking it forward.

"Being offered a full-time position with England alongside Roy Hodgson is a fantastic opportunity for me and one that I simply couldn't turn down.

"I'm excited at the prospect of being part of a special group of players and backroom staff, who will do their very best to make the nation proud."

There had been reports that the FA would have to pay £1million for Lewington's services, although Press Association Sport understands the compensation fee is in fact around £150,000.

Speaking of the deal, FA chairman David Bernstein said: "The FA would like to thank Fulham for their cooperation in Ray's appointment to the England coaching set-up.

"I am personally very pleased to have Ray with us full-time as we look to build on the foundations laid at Euro 2012.

"We have important games coming up soon: the August fixture sees England facing Italy again before the World Cup Qualifiers start in earnest with Moldova and Ukraine during September then San Marino and Poland in October.

"Ray will be playing a key role as we approach these matches."

The new full-time contract will see Lewington work alongside Hodgson and fellow coach Gary Neville in England's campaigns to reach the Brazil 2014 World Cup and the 2016 European Championship in France.

The former midfielder was Hodgson's first appointment as England manager, having worked with him during his time at Fulham.

Lewington has now left the west Londoners, who said on their official website, http://www.fulhamfc.com: "Fulham Football Club would like to thank Ray Lewington for his services over a period spanning 32 years at the club and wishes him all the very best for the future with the England team."

Lewington made 407 league appearances as a player during a career that took him to Chelsea, Wimbledon, Fulham twice and Sheffield United.

He managed Fulham, Brentford and Watford, coached at Crystal Palace and served the Cottagers in various capacities since rejoining them in 2005.

PA