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FA never contacted Redknapp over England job

Harry Harris, ESPNsoccernet
April 30, 2012

ESPNsoccernet can reveal that Harry Redknapp did not even receive an unofficial approach from the FA ahead of its surprise announcement that Roy Hodgson will be interviewed for the England manager's job on Monday.

Tottenham manager Redknapp was widely expected to replace Fabio Capello as head coach having received huge public support from England players such as Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney, plus members of the FA board including Bolton chairman Phil Gartside, who claimed the Spurs boss would make an "outstanding England manager".

And after months of relentless speculation that Redknapp was the manager-elect, the former West Ham boss was taken by surprise by the FA's decision not even to approach Spurs for permission to speak to him.

A source close to Redknapp told ESPNsoccernet: "He took it pragmatically. I thought he would be upset, but he didn't appear to be. He has not been approached at all, but his view is 'the FA know where I am!'"

Redknapp had one more season left on a £3.5 million-a year-contract and it is thought the FA may have had to pay around £10 million in compensation to land him, even if his club had agreed to allow them to speak to the 65-year-old.

However, Redknapp made no secret of his desire to manage England and the FA's snub will come as a huge letdown in his career; like some before him who were billed as the people's choice, such as Brian Clough, the chance may never come around again.

A source told ESPNsoccernet: "Clearly being linked with the England job has not done Harry any favours, it has been a huge distraction despite what has been said to the contrary, and results have dipped.

"Clearly the FA know they are getting someone who would be cheaper, and easier to handle, that might have been a consideration. If they are going for international experience, well Roy Hodgson hasn't managed at the very highest level, has he?"

Hodgson took Switzerland to the 1994 World Cup and qualified the nation for Euro '96 - at one point during his reign they were ranked third in the world - and also had spells with Finland and the United Arab Emirates.

West Brom boss Hodgson is out-of-contract in the summer and his club have quickly confirmed permission has been granted for talks to open. The FA could reach a successful conclusion very quickly, although his club would like the former Inter Milan manger to continue at the Hawthorns.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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