Phil Neville becomes new manager of David Beckham's MLS franchise Inter Miami

In this file photo dated Wednesday, March 7, 2018, England head coach Phil Neville walks onto the field before a SheBelieves Cup women's soccer match against the United States, in Orlando, USA. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, FILE)

Phil Neville has become manager of David Beckham's MLS franchise Inter Miami after stepping down as England Women's team boss.

Neville puts pen to paper on a two-year deal with the American club, with an official announcement having been made on Monday.

Beckham and Neville, former Manchester United teammates, are also fellow co-owners of League Two side Salford.

Neville had been due to step down as Three Lions manager when his contract expired in July, but this has instead been cut short and he leaves with immediate effect.

England will name an interim head coach to lead the Lionesses in February before Sarina Wiegman takes over the post on a permanent basis after the Olympic Games in August.

Neville said in a statement on Inter Miami’s official website: “I am incredibly delighted for this opportunity to coach Inter Miami and to work with Chris (Henderson, the club’s new chief soccer officer and sporting director) and the entire ownership group.

Soccer Football - National League Promotion Play-Off Final - Salford City v AFC Fylde - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - May 11, 2019 Salford City owners Phil Neville, Peter Lim and David Beckham celebrate after the match [Action Images via Reuters, Peter Cziborra, File Photo]

“This is a very young club with a lot of promise and upside, and I am committed to challenging myself, my players and everyone around me to grow and build a competitive soccer culture we can all be proud of.

“This fantastic soccer-loving market deserves consistent performances and a winning mentality, and I look forward to getting to work.”

The club had confirmed the appointment of former USA midfielder Henderson shortly before announcing Neville’s.

Beckham said: “I am very happy with the leadership group we have established to lead the team as we turn the page following our inaugural season and look forward to having Chris and Phil join us soon.

Soccer Football - National League Promotion Play-Off Final - Salford City v AFC Fylde - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - May 11, 2019 Salford City owners Phil Neville, Peter Lim and David Beckham celebrate after the match [Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra/File Photo]

“I have known Phil since we were both teenagers at the Manchester United academy. We share a footballing DNA having been trained by some of the best leaders in the game, and it’s those values that I have always wanted running through our club.

“Phil has deep experience in football, as a player and as a coach at both club and international level, and over his career he has worked with many of the finest managers and players in the game.

“I know his qualities as a person, his decency, loyalty and honesty – and his incredible energy and work ethic.

"Anyone who has played or worked with Phil knows he is a natural leader, and I believe now is the right time for him to join.”

By Ben Ahenda 44 mins ago
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