Ashley Cole is hired as England U21 assistant coach

Lee Carsley

has been appointed as

England’s U21

head coach, and Chelsea’s former star

Ashley Cole

is going to be his assistant coach. Aidy Boothroyd was their head coach for five years, and after his departure, Carsley joined the team from England’s under-20 to replace him.

Ashley Cole, who has played 107 games for the national team, is going to be Carsley’s assistant coach combining with his role as a coach in Chelsea’s academy.

"I'm really happy to get this opportunity to support Lee and work with the best youngsters in the country,"

said Cole, who began his coaching career with Derby County. 

  "I loved playing for the national team and to now get the chance to work as an England coach is a special feeling.

"St. George's Park is an amazing place and I can't wait to get started. I want to do my best to help young players to develop, and also learn from some brilliant people at the same time."

Carsley was appointed as the head coach after Boothroyd’s disappointing performance in the European Championship, leading to their failure in progressing from the group stage. He had joined the Under-21 team after Gareth Southgate’s promotion to the senior team in 2016.

The new staff will start their job with two games against Romania and Kosovo in September.

FA technical director John McDermott added:

"I'm very happy to be able to confirm Lee's appointment, and to be able to bring in someone of Ashley's stature as his number two, with thanks to Chelsea for their support."

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