Hodgson for England

"West Bromwich Albion have given the Football Association permission to talk to Roy Hodgson about the vacant England manager's position." (more)

Bit out of the blue that one, almost as if the FA have flown in the face of the media circus surrounding Harry Redknapp. Reading between the lines, and West Brom have already given their approval, it sounds as if Hodgson is the number one and only choice.

Redknapp has never even been mentioned by the suits at the FA, let alone approached, blimey there will be some serious shaking of heads amongst the popular press. Harry's season has gone down the crapper since he won his court case and the journos appointed him as England manager in waiting. Roy's meanwhile has been steady moving the Baggies into 10th, 3 points behind Kenny Daglish's Liverpool and his expensively assembled squad.

 Hodgson is a decent man and a safe bet with plenty of varied experience including big tournaments (Switzerland, 1994 World Cup). He is also in my mind far more tactically aware than Harry, if not as flamboyant in his style of play, but then that takes a large transfer kitty which a national manager doesn't have.

Question is, and one that the media will insist is answered is why not Harry? Baggage, cost, health? Only four men know and although as I am warming to Hodgson for England, I worry that we have been down this road before. I know I'd rather a Venables than a McClaren.

 The next England manager will only be as good as it's players, and Roy has a good as chance to make something of this bunch as anyone. He's biggest hurdle though will be the lads in Wapping, who will already be sharpening their pencils and doodling on their pads various kinds of vegetables.