• Roy Hodgson’s assistant delays joining up with squad for March friendlies • Says he is staying in Spain to show full commitment to his struggling team

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

Gary Neville has delayed joining the England squad for the internationals against Germany on 26 March and Holland three days later so he can focus on reviving the fortunes of Valencia.

His decision comes after Valencia lost 2-0 at home to Celta Vigo on Sunday, a third consecutive La Liga defeat which left Neville’s side six points above the relegation zone and fans at the Mestalla chanting “Neville go now”.

The England assistant coach said: “I have just spoken to Roy Hodgson and am going to stay back in Valencia. I feel it’s the right thing to do.”

Mestalla crowd turn on Gary Neville after Valencia lose to Celta Vigo Read more

He continued: “Obviously it’s not an ideal situation, in respect to the fact that before I came here I was the assistant coach for the national team of England, with 60 million people, but I understand the two or three million people in Valencia need my attention this week.

“The last thing I want is for people here to say Gary Neville lacks commitment, because it’s not something that’s ever been said about me in my life.

“Obviously I have a dual role, at this moment in time. I’ve been England coach for three and a half years and I’ve loved doing that. These are friendly matches, very important matches for England, but I also have three very important days here coaching the players.

“I said last week I’ve come to love this club and this city and I want to give my all to the club. They deserve nothing less.”