England assistant manager Sammy Lee quits as Gareth Southgate looks to build his own backroom staff
Three Lions boss is hoping Chelsea coach Steve Holland will become his new right-hand man on a permanent basis
SAMMY LEE has quit as assistant England manager as boss Gareth Southgate begins building his own backroom staff.
Lee was brought in as Sam Allardyce's No2 in July but the latter was sacked just one game - and 67 days - after landing his dream job for getting caught up in a sting operation.
Southgate kept Lee, 57, as part of his backroom team during his four-game interim spell in charge but, after being appointed full time, wants to hire his own people.
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The new England gaffer also dismissed Leicester coach Craig Shakespeare - another of Allardyce's appointments.
Goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson's future is yet to be confirmed.
Southgate thanked Lee for his services to the Three Lions, in particular his ability to "steady the ship" after Allardyce's departure.
He said: "I have great respect for Sammy.
"He is somebody who I worked with as a player and his personality and professionalism were excellent throughout my period as interim manager.
"I felt it was important for me to bring in my own support team and Sammy fully respected that.
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"I was grateful with the way he helped to steady the ship throughout October and November and we wish him well for the future."
Lee, who worked previously with England under Sven-Goran Eriksson, said: "I should like to place on record my sincere thanks to the FA for the opportunity they gave me to work with the national team. It has been a great honour.
"I should also like to thank the players and staff for their support during this period of my career and wish them all the very best for the future. In particular I wish Gareth and his new coaching team every success in the future."
Southgate wants Chelsea coach Steve Holland to become his new right-hand man permanently.
Holland has only agreed to take the job on a temporary basis as he wants to help the Blues push for the title this season.
The pair worked together at England Under-21 and senior level.
SunSport revealed the FA have offered Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard a fast track into coaching.
Three Lions bosses want the pair to mentor England's rising stars.
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