It seems like it’s back to square one for the FA. They’re facing the same prospect they did after England’s shameful exit from the Euros at the hands of Iceland, finding a new manager. This time of course they need a man who can at least keep his head together and show some sensibility while in the company of “under cover” reporters. Sam Allardyce’s reign only lasted a few weeks before an undercover operation led to his undoing after a video showed him speaking about “ways to get around” player transfers.
But with one exit, comes yet another exciting opportunity of a new face at the helm. Many weren’t too excited by Big Sam’s appointment, clearly because he wasn’t the refreshing new face many English supporters had wanted to see after years under Roy Hodgson, Stuart Pearce, Fabio Capello and Steve Mclaren. A lot of new names are coming to light for the post and it is inevitably getting exciting
Arsene Wenger, has been the front runner in the rumor mill to be linked for the job. The Frenchmen’s twenty years at Arsenal has made him the most successful overseas manager in England. Arsenal has also been providing England with excellent players over the years, Theo Wallcot, Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade Chamberlain and Calum Chambers. In a press interview when asked about his thoughts regarding the job, the 66 year old replied
“One day, if I’m free, why not?”
Mauricio Pochettino’s name has also been mentioned frequently, the Argentine has had a pedigree of good managerial careers over his last three clubs – Espanyol, Southampton and currently Tottenham. He led Espanyol from the bottom three to a comfortable 10th place in his first tenure at the club. In 2013 he was appointed Southampton’s manager, during his first term he led the Saints to an eighth place finish (a club record since 1989-1990). A year later, the 44 year old was appointed as the Spurs manager on a five year contract – since then he’s led them a highest 3rd place finish, automatic qualification in the Champions League. Pochettino is renowned for bringing many academy players into his first team and no club has played more English players last season than Tottenham. Pochettino is the perfect fit however he believes his promise to the Spurs is more important at the moment but the future might hold something special for him.
Bournemouth manager linked with England job
Bournemouth coach, Eddie Howe has turned down rumors whether the FA reached him with the offer, however he too believes that it is the ultimate job for which he might look forward to in the future but right now Eddie’s promise is with his club.
Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew termed it as ‘proud moment’ hearing his name coming up for the job however he too turned it down in the favor of his own personal commitments at the club
Alan Pardew felt proud after hearing rumors linking him the England job
The FA have appointed Gareth Southgate as the caretaker manager of the squad. Southgate who was previously offered the job, is currently the manager of England’s under – 21’s squad. He’ll manage the team for the upcoming four games against Spain (friendly), Slovenia, Malta and Scotland (all three being World Cup qualifiers).