Howe not ready for England job

Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce is the favourite for the job, having also been interviewed to succeed Roy Hodgson, who quit after England’s dismal showing at Euro 2016 where they suffered an embarrassing defeat by Iceland in the last 16. “I’m highly flattered and extremely grateful to even be considered”, added the ex-Manchester United defender.

FA bosses are “getting close” to appointing a new England manager, says its chief executive.

“Any Englishman, for their salt, would be really, really proud to be England manager”.

“What I said to them in the interview has to remain there”.

“Big Sam” Allardyce was in line for the job a decade ago when Sven-Goran Eriksson departed after the 2006 World Cup, but lost out to Steve McClaren. But we have to take away the fear in tournaments, somehow.

Allardyce, seen fist pumping and demonstrating some nifty footwork, was filmed jigging along to Rihanna’s hit song “We Found Love” in a nightclub during his post-season break.

His coaching career began with brief assignments at Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Wigan and Crystal Palace but he put a reputation for itchy feet behind him during a largely successful six-year stay at Birmingham.

Wilkes was been part of Allardyce’s England team in the last three Soccer Aid games, including this year’s edition in June when Jose Mourinho was also involved.

Allardyce joined Sunderland in October and helped the team stay in the Premier League, further improving his credentials for the England job.

Glenn will attend an FA board meeting on Thursday and although the issue will be a major talking point it may be too early for a final recommendation.

England were hoping to have a new boss in place in time for a scheduled friendly on September 1 and the opening 2018 World Cup qualifier in Slovakia on September 4.