When Thomas Tuchel took charge of England it seemed like it was going to be a quick in and out.
The German signed an 18-month contract to see him through England’s World Cup campaign.
Then, he was expected to return to club management.
The former Borussia Dortmund, Paris St-Germain, Chelsea and Bayern Munich coach would likely have had the pick of many top jobs in the summer.
Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are just two clubs who would have had him on their radar.
Instead, he has committed his future to the Three Lions.
The England job has proved to be an excellent fit for the 52-year-old.
Before the November internationals, Tuchel said he had enjoyed “the level of support and trust” the Football Association offered. So we should not be surprised he has now decided to stay on.
Tuchel has always spoken highly of the Premier League but could not walk away from leading England at a home tournament.
It is good news for the FA, too. The last thing it wanted was to deal with months of speculation not only over Tuchel’s position, but who would replace him.
Now it can plan for the home Euros with continuity, and a coach who has got results.
It is not without pitfalls, of course. If England underperform at the World Cup, questions over his future will be asked.
But Tuchel’s record so far means both parties do not see this as a risky move.