Roy Hodgson’s stock is rising at the FA as they prepare
for life without Fabio Capello after Euro 2012.
There has been a growing belief inside football’s ruling body
that there should be a move back to an English boss when the job
becomes available. At the moment Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is
widely acknowledged as the people’s choice to succeed Capello.
In fact, Redknapp is the favourite with all the bookies quoting
odds on the FA’s line of succession.
But Sunday Mirror sport can reveal that West Brom manager
Hodgson is gaining credibility within FA circles as the heir
apparent to Capello’s throne.
A four man short-list is emerging featuring Hodgson, Redknapp,
Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho and Stuart Pearce, currently in
charge of the England Under-21 team.
Over the past couple of years Hodgson’s name has often been
mentioned as a potential candidate for the England job without him
ever gaining a real upsurge of support. That appears to be changing
now.
Hodgson’s successful time at Fulham, allied to his past
experience as an international manager with Switzerland, Finland
and the UAE, made him a genuine contender.
In fact, at one point he was quoted by bookies as evens
favourite to eventually land the England job.
But in the summer of 2010 he joined Liverpool in a move that
went badly wrong for both parties. The political and ownership rows
engulfing Anfield undermined the new manager.
Hodgson appeared to struggle to develop a real working rapport
with the Anfield staff. And while his transfer resources were
limited the impact of his signings was poor.
After barely six months in the Anfield job he left with the club
floundering. And yet, by guiding West Brom impressively out of the
relegation zone last spring Hodgson again proved his managerial
credentials.
In recent discussions Hodgson is being cited as a likely
front-runner when the task of naming Capello’s successor comes
around.
Even though the FA have declared a preference to appoint a
British boss next the FA are considering Mourinho as the
outstanding international alternative. The controversial former
Chelsea boss has been sounded out in the past but always maintained
he would only manage one international team - his native
Portugal.
Stuart Pearce, the Under-21 coach, is also likely to be
interviewed for the post but is widely perceived to be the outsider
for the job. However, FA sources believe that in terms of
continuity Pearce must be considered for the job.
Paddy Power odds on next permanent England manager:
Harry Redknapp 6-5
Roy Hodgson 9-1
Jose Mourinho 12-1
Stuart Pearce 9-1