Steve McClaren says he is ready for the biggest challenge of his career after being appointed as the next England Head Coach.

McClaren will take over from Sven-Goran Eriksson on August 1 and believes he is the proudest man in the country to get the chance of leading the Three Lions.

And he is determined to guide England to glory during his reign.

"I have got experience, but as a coach you always look for a challenge and this is one of the biggest challenges of my career," he said.

"But I intend to do well. I am results-orientated and I am here to do a job and make sure that over the next four years - and in Germany this summer - we can win a major trophy.

"I think I am probably the proudest man in England right now and I look forward to the challenge ahead.

"To manage your country is the greatest honour and I am very proud. I think Sven has done a fantastic job and I have learnt so much from working alongside him.

"But I have my own style and I think that will become apparent when I take over in August."

Reaction to the announcement:

Players and managers around the country have welcomed the news that Steve McClaren will take over from Sven-Goran Eriksson as the England Head Coach after the World Cup. Here is what people from inside the game had to say on his appointment:

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: "All the lads at Derby said he was very progressive when we signed him at United and that is what I found. I hope he does well because it is a very hard job. I think he is a very good choice."

England and Spurs striker Jermain Defoe: "It is great news and I am so happy for him because he is a good coach. I have worked with him in the England squad everyone knows he is an unbelievable coach with some great ideas.

"His communication skills are excellent because when he has an idea he is able to explain it very well to the players. I really do think he is the right guy."

Former England and Arsenal captain Tony Adams: "Steve McClaren has got one of the best squads for many a year because they are all extremely talented and most have got experience of playing in Europe. They are a wonderfully talented group of lads."

Former England and Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe: "I think it’s a matter of succession. He knows the players, he knows the set up, so it's a successful choice.

"If he was not right to take over he would not be involved in the England set up in the first place.

"I just wanted the best manager. We deserved the best as we have got some of the best players in the world. McClaren is the right way to go."

Former England and Chelsea defender Graeme Le Saux said: "McClaren has been around the England set up and has been groomed for the role ever since he joined up with England. It just seems the natural way of going forward."

Former England, Arsenal and Newcastle striker Malcolm MacDonald said: "I say good luck to Steve and I wish him all the best. He knows what the job is about with his experience of working alongside Sven. In terms of that, he's the best qualified guy.

"I think it's the dream job. I'm pleased it's going to an Englishman.''