England women: Brent Hills stays on as FA defers coach decision

The Football Association has deferred the appointment of a new permanent head coach until after two World Cup qualifiers later this month with Brent Hills to stay on in a temporary role.

Hills was in charge for England's wins against Belarus and Turkey last month following Hope Powell's departure.

England face Wales at Millwall on Saturday 26 October, before taking on Turkey in Adana five days later.

Hills has made just one change to his squad from the previous two matches.

Birmingham defender Laura Bassett replaces Gothenburg midfielder Anita Asante, who is ruled out with a broken bone in her foot.

England Under-23 coach Hills, 59, was an assistant to Powell and has already said that he would like the role on a permanent basis.

New York Fury coach Paul Riley has also expressed an interest.

Hills said: "Taking charge of my country for those two games was a real honour. I enjoyed every minute of it and I'm sure I will again.

"I was very happy with the team's level of work during the last double-header and obviously with the manner of their performances - not just the number of goals we scored but because we continued to do the right things throughout."

Hills continued: "England v Wales is always a game that stands out and I'm sure it will be a special occasion for both sets of players, staff and fans."

Wales kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Belarus.

England squad in full:

Goalkeepers

Karen Bardsley (Lincoln Ladies), Rachel Brown-Finnis (Everton), Siobhan Chamberlain (Bristol Academy).

Defenders

Laura Bassett (Birmingham City), Gemma Bonner (Liverpool), Sophie Bradley (Lincoln Ladies), Lucy Bronze (Liverpool), Steph Houghton (Arsenal), Alex Scott (Arsenal), Casey Stoney (Lincoln Ladies).

Midfielders

Jade Moore (Birmingham City), Jordan Nobbs (Arsenal), Jill Scott (Everton), Fara Williams (Liverpool).

Wide Players

Eniola Aluko (Chelsea), Karen Carney (Birmingham City), Danielle Carter (Arsenal), Jess Clarke (Lincoln Ladies), Rachel Yankey (Arsenal).

Forwards

Natasha Dowie (Liverpool), Toni Duggan (Everton), Ellen White (Arsenal).