One of the committee members who will help choose the next England coach says the man who replaces Sven-Goran Eriksson should be British.
Premier League chairman Dave Richards is a member of the three-man panel that will provide the shortlist for Eriksson’s successor.
“It’s time for a British boss, somebody who understands our passion, belief and commitment. There’s no distinction between English and British.”
Richards’ statement seems to hint at former Celtic manager Martin O’Neill, who although not Ennglish, has plenty of experience of the English game.
Northern Irishman O’Neill has been reported as the FA’s favoured choice to succeed Swede Eriksson. O’Neill has been out of the game since quitting as Celtic manager last summer to spend more time with his ill wife. He has given no indication that he is ready to return to football, but the FA may well test his resolve.
Richards, Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick and international committee chairman Noel White will present a list of candidates to a full meeting of the FA board on 27 February.
Other English candidates linked with the post include Manchester City boss Stuart Pearce, Charlton’s Alan Curbishley and Bolton’s Sam Allardyce.
“We are the biggest nation in the world that plays this game and we want someone who can really move us on,” Richards added.
“I don’t know yet who it will be. But everyone keeps telling me there are all these coaches available. Well, now we will sit down and find out just who is up for the job.
“We have still got a bit of time. We are going to go and win the World Cup first.”
Eriksson will step down as England manager after this year’s World Cup finals in Germany.
