Phil Neville commentary will calm fans, police joke

The BBC said Phil Neville would continue to play a key role in its World Cup coverage

Police have joked on Twitter about using BBC football summariser Phil Neville's voice to calm England fans.

He was criticised by some on social media for his dry delivery during England's match with Italy.

South Warwickshire police tweeted: "At least we know Phil Neville won't stir the crowds in the pubs into a frenzy."

In response, the BBC said the ex-Manchester United player was "an important, well respected member of our team".

"He will continue to play a key role throughout the tournament." the corporation added.

South Warwickshire police made a number of light-hearted remarks about Phil Neville during the match between England and Italy

Responding to general criticism of his commentating during the match, Neville later tweeted: "Sometimes u have to take the criticism - it will only make me better- thanks for the feedback(ahhahaha)!"

South Warwickshire police also tweeted after the injury to England physio Gary Lewin, who hurt his ankle during the match.

They wrote: "England physio gets injured celebrating a goal. Don't U get injured from too much alcohol tonight."

West Mercia police also joined in on the joke with a tweet of their own.

Police in Malvern joined in with the tweets too

The BBC said Neville was scheduled to co-commentate and act as a studio guest on a number of upcoming matches in the tournament.

It said he had experience of working on previous high-profile matches for TV and radio and had been given training by the corporation.