Former Lionesses’ boss Hope Powell has joined England’s backroom team as a technical advisor ahead of the FIFA Men’s U20 World Cup.

Powell managed England women between 1998 and 2013, leading the Lionesses to two World Cups and the 2009 European Championship final. She also coached the Great Britain women’s team at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, and her most recent managerial position was with Brighton Women where she managed the Seagulls for five years between 2017 and 2022.

Ian Foster, England U20s manager, has described Powell’s prior experience at international level as well as working with FIFA as invaluable ahead of this month’s tournament in Argentina.

Powell’s appointment comes amidst conversations surrounding the lack of minority representation in managerial and coaching positions. Whilst representation on the pitch – especially in men’s football – is becoming increasingly more diverse, the dugout and behind the scenes staff are predominantly white and male.

The former Lionesses’ manager’s assignment is supported by the England Elite Coach Programme, a partnership between the FA and the PFA to create opportunities within England national teams for support staff and coaches from underrepresented backgrounds.

England’s first match-up against Tunisia kicks off at 7pm on May 22.

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