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Chris Powell – Statement

Chris Powell – Statement

Following Chris Powell’s departure from his role with The FA, at the end of his cycle as an elite coach, he has made the following statement:

“I would like to thank The FA and Gareth Southgate for the opportunity I’ve had to work with the England men’s senior team as an elite coach for the past three-and-a-half-years.

“The scheme was devised to offer opportunities for BAME coaches to work at an elite level, and I feel particular credit should be given to Les Reed and Dan Ashworth for their work in creating this pathway for coaches like me.

“This was a journey and a series of experiences that will never leave me. It is most young football supporters’ dream to represent their country and I have been fortunate enough to play for England, and then to work as part of the coaching staff.

“Euro 2020 and our agonising penalty shootout defeat to Italy showed just how close we were to claiming silverware, and the 2022 World Cup was evidence of how far we have come in matching our opponents, the best sides in the world, both technically and tactically.

“My sincere hope is that Gareth, the staff and the players can go one better, qualify for and win Euro 2024 in Germany.

“I would like to thank our incredible supporters that followed the team during a difficult period following COVID-19 and then the cost of living crisis, and for the personal support I was given face-to-face and over social media, which always meant a great deal to me. Also, the overwhelming outpouring of support for the boys after the Euros, fighting back against the racist abuse they received, showed that love, not hate, will always win. There is still much work to do to continue to eradicate racism and prejudice from football and from wider society, but together we can and will get closer to achieving this.

“I have learned so much and feel so privileged to have experienced working at this level with such good people, coaching such a talented group of players. I wish the next coach all the best and hope they gain as much from it as I have.

“I am still focused and proud to work as Head of Coaching U17-U21 for Tottenham Hotspur, a club I have supported since I was a young boy and want to continue my own coaching journey and use the learnings I have made with The FA in my current role.”

For any enquiries for Chris, please email dean@oportosports.com

Please follow Chris on Twitter @ChrisPowell1969

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