England meet-up not a break for Valencia's Neville

Valencia coach Gary Neville has rebuffed England manager Roy Hodgson's claim that the upcoming international break could come as a relief to the former Manchester United captain after a difficult few months in his first managerial role.

Neville will fulfil his commitment as an England coach by leaving Spain to meet up with Hodgson's men for friendlies against Germany and the Netherlands after Sunday's game against Celta Vigo.

When asked about Neville's predicament, Hodgson said he hoped "it will be a nice little break" from the daily demands at Valencia.

Neville has overseen just three wins in 15 La Liga games since taking charge in December and was sent to the stands as Valencia bowed out of the Europa League on away goals to Athletic Bilbao on Thursday.

"I don't know about refreshing, I don't know if it's the right word. It won't be a break either. It's something we agreed many months ago when I came to Valencia," said Neville.

Neville insisted his decision to go away with England was based on the fact that only eight senior players will remain in Valencia during the two-week break due to their own international commitments.

However, with Neville only under contract at the Mestalla until the end of the season, the move has been criticised locally as a further signal that he sees his future back in England.

"Maybe it's been used against me by the fans or people like yourselves, asking the questions, but it's been a three or four-month commitment," he added.

"I'm totally committed to Valencia, I think I've proven that.

"The thing that will be more refreshing for me will be to win against Celta Vigo, and then to win the eight remaining matches."
Source: AFP