McLaren in, Platt out for England

Last updated at 16:31 14 May 2004

Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren will replace Brian Kidd as part of Sven-Goran Eriksson's England coaching staff at this summer's Euro 2004 finals.

Kidd recently underwent surgery after being diagnosed with prostate cancer and felt it was in the team's best interests if he took a temporary break from his post as an England assistant coach.

McClaren, who was involved with England until the autumn of 2002, when he devoted himself entirely to Boro, has therefore agreed to return on a temporary basis to help out Eriksson this summer.

Platt axed

Meanwhile, David Platt has lost his job as England Under-21 coach in the wake of the side's failure to qualify for the European Championships.

Platt will still act as a scout for Sven-Goran Eriksson at this summer's Euro 2004 finals, but will then part company with the Football Association.

No reasons were given by the FA for the change, although Platt has won just 12 of his 26 matches in charge since succeeding Howard Wilkinson in July 2001.

An FA spokesman said: "The FA are grateful for David's efforts in developing players in the Under-21 team. His contribution as a former England player and captain should not be forgotten."

Eriksson told the FA's website, www.theFA.com : "I am delighted that David has agreed to stay on until after the Euro 2004 championships. He will play an important role in our scouting network."

Platt's complete record as England Under-21 coach was 12 wins in 26 matches with six draws and eight defeats. He won 62 caps for England and was national team captain on 19 occasions.