Gary Neville.

The Manchester United legend was delighted with the appointment of his former team-mate and best man to the England setup

Manchester United legend David Beckham has hailed the appointment of former team-mate Gary Neville as England coach, believing his honesty will stand him in good stead.

The former England full back was appointed to the England coaching staff on a four-year contract, combined with his media work for Sky Sports.

“I think it’s great. Gary has knowledge throughout the game,” said Beckham.

“He’s been in big tournaments, he’s played for England for many years.

“Gary has always been very vocal about many things. He’s had the experience of being through tournaments and being disappointed in tournaments and knowing what he thinks have been the problems - that’s why it’s a clever move and great for the team.

“Let’s hope we go out there and we’re successful. It’s a new team, young players.

“It’s one of the first times we have gone into a big competition without huge, huge expectation on our shoulders - that could maybe be a good thing for the team.”

Neville holds UEFA A and B coaching licences and has 85 England caps.

He played in five major tournaments for England: Euro 96, Euro 2000, Euro 2004, plus the 1998 and 2006 World Cups – missing the 2002 version through injury.