The Football Association say Paul Simpson's work will prove a "major" part of England's future success as the Carlisle-born coach leaves the international set-up.

Simpson yesterday joined the backroom team at Bristol City, ending a four-year association with England.

The ex-Carlisle United manager memorably led the Under-20s to the World Cup in 2017 - becoming the first boss since Alf Ramsey in 1966 to deliver a global trophy to England.

The FA's technical director Les Reed paid tribute to both Simpson and Keith Downing, who has also left his position in England's youth set-up to join new boss Dean Holden at Bristol City.

"I would like to show my appreciation for the work and contribution Paul and Keith have made to England teams and the growth of the technical division at St. George’s Park," Reed said.

“They achieved notable success on the pitch, winning tournaments and I’d like to recognise their excellent work with our young players progressing through the England pathway, with a number going on to play for our senior team.

“I'm sure their work will prove to be a major factor in the success of England and St. George’s Park as we move through COVID-19 and forward to a new landscape around international football, which I believe will be part of an exciting future for English football.

“Occasionally football throws up opportunities and they are moving on to challenging but exciting roles. They leave with the best wishes of everyone at The FA and I would like to wish them every success.”

Simpson had joined the FA as a national specialist coach in 2016 before taking charge of the Under-20s the following year.

He oversaw the history-making World Cup victory in South Korea that summer.

More recently Simpson has been in charge of the Under-19s, with Downing coaching the Under-20s.

Then latter also enjoyed international success, leading the Under-19s to the European Championships title in 2017.

His move to Ashton Gate marks a return to the club game for Simpson, who famously led the Blues to back-to-back promotions in 2005 and 2006, and whose last domestic coaching position was with Newcastle United.

Holden was last night confirmed as the new head coach at Bristol City, succeeding the recently-sacked Lee Johnson at the Championship club.