Tom Powell
IT seems Phil Neville is doomed to stand in his brother’s shadow in management, just as he did in his playing career.
Former defender Gary Neville has been announced as the head coach of Spanish football team Valencia until the end of the season.
Following the dismissal of Nuno, many had predicted his brother Phil would be thrust into the number one role, given he was already assistant manager at the club.
However, in a shock announcement, the Neville brothers are to be reunited at the Mestalla for the first time since their Manchester United days with Gary at the helm.
Gary, 40, who played at right back for England and Manchester United, will take charge of the team officially on Sunday.
It is his first head coach job, although he will continue to work with Roy Hodgson in the England coaching set-up in the run-up to next summer’s European Championships.
He said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be given this opportunity with Valencia.”
Both brothers know Valencia director Peter Lim because they all have a stake in Salford City FC, a small English team which they are hoping to eventually turn into Champions League contenders.
