FORMER England boss Peter Taylor is delighted to see Chris Powell playing an integral part in the Three Lions’ passage to the Euro 2020 final.

Powell has been a member of Gareth Southgate’s backroom team since 2019.

And Taylor - who managed Powell during his own spell in charge of Southend United in the mid 1990s - is thrilled to see the former left-back impressing on the international stage.

“When I did the England under 21 job I had Ray Wilkins with me,” said Taylor.

“You can imagine the players talking to him about his experiences.

“He was a great listener and a lovely, lovely fella and Chris is the same as that.

“He might not have reached the same level as a player as Ray but the players will definitely respond to him.”

Powell made 290 appearances as a player for the Shrimpers before returning as a manager in January 2018.

However, Powell was dismissed 13 months later and Taylor is pleased with how the 51-year-old responded to his Roots Hall disappointment.

“He’s a top professional and works as hard as he can,” said Taylor.

“He’s very good, he’s a real thinker and I’m delighted for him.

“He deserves it because I know Southend didn’t work out and that hurt him.

“It’s nice he’s having a certain period now where he’s getting compliments because it’s lovely to hear.”

Powell has known boss Southgate since their time together at Crystal Palace and he is joined in the backroom team by two other former Shrimpers.

Ex Blues forward Graeme Jones has joined the set up for the tournament while former Southend shot-stopper Martyn Margetson remains goalkeeping coach.