England Women's boss Mark Sampson extends contract

England Women's head coach Mark Sampson has agreed a two-year contract extension which will see him remain in charge of the national team until 2019.

The deal will see the former Bristol Academy boss lead the Lionesses into next summer's UEFA Women's European Championships as well as the 2019 Women's World Cup in France.

Goalkeeping coach Lee Kendall will also remain part of the set-up after England's historic World Cup run in Canada last summer, where they finished third, beating reigning European champions and two-time world champions Germany in the bronze-medal match.  

"I am delighted to have agreed to continue working with the Lionesses through to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup," Sampson said.

"It is an honour and a privilege to manage such a fantastic group of people who represent their country with incredible pride and passion. We have all worked very hard over the last two years to improve both individually and collectively and our World Cup bronze medal highlights the progress this team has made.

"It was crucial post World Cup that we worked hard to continue to grow the game and I am pleased with the steps we have taken that we are ready to do just that.

"I am delighted that Lee Kendall has also agreed to extend his contract with the team and over the coming weeks we will highlight the good work that has gone on behind the scenes to support the team.

"It is an incredibly exiting period for all players and supporters of the Lionesses and I am proud to continue leading the team through this special journey."

FA technical director Dan Ashworth said: "Since Mark was appointed he has shown he is an excellent coach and leader, instilling a real confidence in the side and getting results.

"We're committed to the growth and development of the women's game and our focus is on creating winning England teams. I am confident that under Mark's leadership this England team has the capability to go on and enjoy success at future tournaments."

Kelly Simmons, FA director of football participation and development, said: "Mark thoroughly deserves this contract extension for his excellent work over the past two years and the achievements he has led the team to.

"He and Lee, and the England staff and players really caught the public imagination at the World Cup last summer and inspired so many girls and women to play football.

"There is an excitement and belief about where this team can go and what impact they can have on the wider women's game. By extending the period of the contracts, this will allow them to build on the great work that they have done so far to create a long-lasting legacy for women's football."