Roy Hodgson steps down as England boss following defeat to Iceland
Roy Hodgson has stepped down as England manager following the shock defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016 on Monday.
England were embarrassingly knocked out of Euro 2016 after losing 2-1 to Iceland at the Allianz Riviera.
Hodgson elected to start under-fire winger Raheem Sterling as part of an attacking line-up in Nice and was rewarded when captain Wayne Rooney scored from the penalty spot after just three minutes.
Iceland came from behind to win 2-1 in Nice on Monday
However, Iceland hit back immediately through Ragnar Sigurdsson and Kolbein Sigthorsson to record the greatest result in their country’s history.
The defeat caps a miserable tournament for England, who were held to draws by Russia and Slovakia during the group stage.
Hodgson, who was appointed as England manager prior to Euro 2012, announced his decision to step down from his role immediately after the defeat.
“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 talented group of players,” he said.
“They’ve been fantastic and done everything asked of them. When I arrived I was told that players didn’t turn up to play for their country or would pull out at the last minute. But I have not seen any of that. Their commitment has been unquestionable.
“Ray [Lewington] and Gary [Neville] have asked me to speak on their behalf. They arrived with me as part of my coaching team and they’ll leave with me.
“I would like to thank them for dedicated support and for the major part they’ve played in our team preparation.
“Finally I would 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.
“I would like to thank the media for the support that you’ve given me. I’m sorry it’s had to end this way with another exit from a tournament but these things happen.
“All I can do is wish everybody all the very best and hope that you will still be able to see an England team in a final of a major tournament very soon. We’ve been unable to deliver.”
Source:Skysports
