Wherever Gareth Southgate goes, Steve Holland is never too far behind.
The England assistant manager is a key part of the national team's set-up and can often be seen during matches given Southgate advice. He has been in the role since Southgate took over in 2016 and was also with England under-21s alongside Southgate before that.
During this World Cup it was reported that Holland was involved in an alleged bust-up with defender Ben White, who left the squad for "personal reasons" and did not return. Southgate refused to give the reports credibility on Friday, saying: "What I've been shown was alleged and there was another word that was used.
"I think by commenting on the story I could be giving it any form of credibility, really. We explained why Ben left the camp and I think it's important that that is respected, really."
Holland, 52, started out his career as a player himself, mainly in the lower leagues, playing for Derby County, Bury, Husqvarna FF, Northwich Victoria and Hyde United between 1986 and 1992. But a bad injury brought his career to a premature end and he decided to go into coaching.
He managed Crewe Alexandra from 2007 to 2008, before moving on to Chelsea where he took up a position as reserves coach from 2009 to 2011, and then assistant to the men's side from 2011 to 2017. He became England under 21s assistant from 2013 to 2016, before becoming assistant to the England men's national side in 2016.
Discussing Holland's impact, former Crewe Alexandra boss Dave Artell told Cheshire Live : “I think everyone who has met the guy knows he is a terrific guy, a humble guy, a terrific coach. He is the best of the best, it is as simple as that and he deserves all the plaudits that come his and Gareth’s way.
“Gareth has the same values as Steve in terms of their humility and emotional management skills, if you want to call it that, complemented with terrific football skills. So, it is no surprise to see they have done so well."
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