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FA's Hodgson choice gets Hoddle's backing

Roy Hodgson is in the spotlight after England approach © Getty Images

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Former England manager Glenn Hoddle has said Roy Hodgson is a "good choice" to lead the nation to Euro 2012 and World Cup 2014 after the West Brom boss was named as the surprise choice to replace Fabio Capello.

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp was the clear favourite to land the job vacated by Capello in February but has seemingly been overlooked by the FA, who instead appear to have opted for the former Switzerland, Finland and United Arab Emirates manager Hodgson instead.

The ex-Inter Milan coach met the FA on Monday and will be handed a long-term contract.

The shock move has been greeted by criticism in some quarters but Hoddle told ESPN: "Roy Hodgson is a good choice. I can see why they have gone for him. But it remains to be seen if he is the right choice.

"We are not going to win Euro 2012 but it's imperative we have someone that can work at all levels to bring the young players through in time for the Brazil World Cup [in 2014] and that is why I believe the FA have gone for Roy.

"Also, he has vast international experience, which, of course, Harry Redknapp doesn't have."

Hodgson has excelled at Premier League clubs such as Fulham and West Brom in the latter stages of his career but was sacked after just six months when handed the reins at Liverpool last season. And doubts remain whether the 64-year-old can handle the added expectations and big-name players.

"In the short term Roy will have the England team well organised at the European championships. He will make them hard to beat. But whether they will be able to express themselves is another matter," Hoddle said.

"He was phenomenal at Fulham but left question marks over his handling of his stars at Liverpool."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.