Former Southend United boss Chris Powell gets coaching role with England

Alongside the PFA, the FA have confirmed the next phase of an Elite Coach Placement Programme working across England men’s teams throughout the 2019-20 season.

Aidy Boothroyd will have his under 21 set-up strengthened by Michael Johnson, who recently guided Guyana to the finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup for the first time.

Elsewhere, Jason Euell will work alongside Keith Downing at under 20 level, newly-appointed U18 head coach Ian Foster will welcome Marcus Bignot to his coaching set-up while Omer Riza and Matthew Thorpe will work with Justin Cochrane’s U16s and Lee Skyrme’s U15s respectively.

The FA's overall aim is to continue the 'talent pipeline' of BAME coaches working at the top level of the game across international and domestic football.

Les Reed, the FA's technical director, said: “We’re pleased to be able to roll out the next phase of this scheme in partnership with the PFA.

“We gathered some useful feedback from coaches who have worked with our men’s teams as part of this scheme over the past year and that has allowed us to further develop this programme to ensure it continues to be mutually beneficial to all parties.

“The PFA has helped us to recruit a talented group of coaches who will now bring their various experiences and skillsets to the England men’s player pathway for the full season ahead.”

Gordon Taylor, the PFA’s chief executive, added: “We are delighted to see Chris Powell and Michael Johnson in prominent England international coaching roles, they will both bring invaluable experience and insight to the respective squads.

“This joint initiative aims to give the best visibility possible to further the progression of elite BAME coaches currently working within the game and to help inspire the next generation of BAME coaches."

Powell was in charge of Blues between January 2018 and March 2019 and also made 290 appearances for Blues during his playing career.