Under-21 boss Stuart Pearce believes he does not have the experience to take over from Fabio Capello as the hunt for next England manager continues (1/7 Euro 2012 – Group G winner).
Despite the Italian still having just less than two years to see out on his current deal the list of potential candidates to replace him has already begun to take shape.
Capello confirmed last week he would walk away from his role after Euro 2012, stating the need to enjoy his retirement as the reason why he would be quitting.
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp, Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson, Pearce and David Beckham have all been mentioned in connection with the post, although it could be some time before any of them are even scheduled for an interview with the FA.
Redknapp has already said it would be a tough job to turn down, with the FA likely to favour the 63-year-old and Hodgson given their recent success with English clubs.
Should Redknapp build on his reputation at Tottenham (10/1 British team to progress furthest in Champions League) as one of the top English managers he would appear to be the ideal choice, given the FA has said it wants an Englishman to takeover.
Pearce’s name had also been thrown into the hat given his time under Capello as his assistant, as well as his work with the Under-21s.
The former defender’s time with the Under-21 set-up has seen them reach the final of the European Championships and help bring through the likes of Joe Hart, James Milner and Adam Johnson.
Despite his time in the England set-up, along with the two years he managed Manchester City, Pearce still believes he doesn’t have enough experience to take over from Capello and has effectively ruled himself out of the running.
“If you ask me the question today, I’ve not got the experience to do that job, but it’s very flattering for people to mention my name,” said Pearce.
“It’s an honour to be mentioned. Whether I’ve supported the nation as a player, Under 21 coach, or coach with the first team, it’s a massive honour.
“It’s like all people that get mentioned, I’ve got a lot of things going in my favour – I’ve captained England, played in tournaments and coached Under 21 tournaments. This summer I’ve been to a major tournament as a coach.
“I tick a few boxes, but I’ve not got a thousand matches behind me like the Harry Redknapps and Roy Hodgsons of this world.”
Director of Football Development Trevor Brooking has backed Pearce’s decision to step back from the role, claiming the former England international needs to go back to club management in order to establish himself as a potential candidate for the role.
Brooking gave no indication as to who would take over from Capello but hinted the FA would lean towards a more experienced manager to take the England (9/1 – Euro 2012 outright) helm, effectively ruling out the likes of Beckham and Alan Shearer.
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