McClaren relinquishes England role

Middlesbrough FC manager Steve McClaren has given up his coaching role with England's national team to concentrate on his club duties.

No connection to Crozier
McClaren, who has been one of England coach Sven-Göran Eriksson's assistants since 2001, said the decision was not connected to the resignation of English Football Association chief executive Adam Crozier on Thursday.

'My own decision'
"I have decided to step down from my role to concentrate fully on the affairs of Middlesbrough Football Club," McClaren said in a statement on Friday. "This is purely my own decision. Indeed, it is a decision I have been considering for some time as my role with Middlesbrough - which must, of course, be my first priority - has taken up more time.

'It was a privilege'
"I leave the post on the best of terms with everyone involved in the England set-up. It was a privilege to occupy the role. I gained greatly from the experience and I hope England benefited from my contribution. I thank Sven, the players and everyone at the FA for the support I have enjoyed."

Eriksson comments
Eriksson, quoted on the FA's official website, said: "On behalf of everyone connected to the FA and the England team, I would like to pay tribute to Steve McClaren. He has been a highly valued member of the set-up, since November 2000. I'm very sorry we are losing him because he is one of the best coaches I know. However I totally respect and understand his decision."