Sam Allardyce raids Chris Coleman’s Welsh side to snap up goalkeeper coach for England

ENGLAND manager Sam Allardyce has raided Wales’ successful Euro 2016 backroom staff to nab goalkeeper coach Martyn Margetson.

Margetson has been a part of the Welsh coaching staff for five and a half years, working firstly with Gary Speed and then Chris Coleman, and he helped them reach the last four of this summer’s Euros.

The 44-year-old is no stranger to Big Sam, working alongside him at West Ham United for several years before leaving to join Cardiff City – where he will now combine his international duties with his club role.

Allardyce said: “Martyn is one of the best goalkeeping coaches around and I am delighted we have been able to get him.

“He understands all aspects of a goalkeepers’ role – not just in terms of shot-stopping or how to command an area but also in terms of strength of character for what is a crucial position on the pitch.

“I would like to thank Cardiff for their support with making this appointment.”

Having emerged through the youth system to the first-team squad at Manchester City during his playing days, Margetson went on to spend five years with Cardiff before retiring in 2007 and moving onto the coaching team.

Following his appointment, Margetson told The FA’s website: “This is a great opportunity and I am excited to be working alongside Sam again. I know what he can bring to a squad and also to the coaching staff.

“England have an outstanding crop of goalkeepers playing at the highest level and I am relishing the chance to work closely with them.

“I would also like to thank Tan Sri Vincent Tan, Paul Trollope and Cardiff City for all of their support.”