The Football Association have revealed that Stuart Pearce's contract as manager of the England Under-21s is not to be renewed.

Speculation over the 51-year-old's future had been rife ever since England's youngsters had exited the ongoing European Championships, losing all three of their group games in the process.

Following talks with the former England international, the governing body have now confirmed that his contract, which will expire at the end of the month, will not be extended any further.

"I'd like to thank Stuart Pearce for his hard work. Nobody can doubt his commitment to the job throughout his time as Under-21 coach," said FA chairman David Bernstein.

"He has done extremely well in qualifying for finals tournaments, but after the disappointment of the past two tournaments, we believe it is time to change coach. On behalf of everyone at the FA I'd like to wish Stuart well for the future."

Steve McClaren, Gareth Southgate and Michael Appleton are the early frontrunners to replace the departing Pearce.