Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton expressed his delight for first-team coach Paul Nevin, and touched on his experience within the game, after being called up to Gareth Southgate’s coaching staff for next month’s matches.
Nevin will make up part of the coaching staff for England’s international friendly against USA and UEFA Nations League match against Croatia - both in November - and Hughton backed the decision to reward his colleague.
He said, “I’m pleased all-round for this football club, mostly for Paul, who’s somebody that has a lot of experience from coaching and managing at different levels.
“What will they ask from him? I’m not sure, that will be down to the staff there and Gareth [Southgate] himself.
“But Paul has a thirst for knowledge and is also a coach that’s had to go out of his way. He’s been abroad, away from his family, and has shown a real dedication to coaching.
“I’ve known him a long time and we also worked together at Norwich. He’s one that’s had to make sacrifices and we’re delighted to have him here.”
Nevin arrived on the south coast in July 2016 and has since played his part in helping the club reach the Premier League, and Hughton commented on the important role the 49-year-old has had within the team.
“Sometimes that initial contact can be from player to coach, as opposed to player to manager. That’s the benefit or advantages of being a first-team coach.
“You are going to have that type of relationship with the players, and they would all be really delighted for him.
“As regards to knowing him well, that’s been in recent years. I’ve known him for some time, but that’s through being in the coaching circle and being in his company a good few times.
“He’s part of a coaching setup that we have here, and what I always try to do with my coaches is make sure that they’re included in everything. It’s a good environment and he’s very much part of that.”