Shilton: Spurs dip could help England

Harry Redknapp
25 April 2012

Peter Shilton feels England could reap the benefits from Tottenham's decline by being able to announce Harry Redknapp as national manager sooner rather than later - if chosen as Fabio Capello's successor.

Shilton, England's most capped player, understands the Football Association's delay because of the club-versus-country conundrum, although he thinks it is not beneficial ahead of Euro 2012. But the former Nottingham Forest goalkeeper can see that stance altering if it becomes apparent Spurs are going to fail in their bid to qualify for the Champions League.

Shilton, who was speaking at the Commerical Vehicle Show where he was representing Vauxhall, said: "There is this situation where Harry might be going for the Champions League spot and so he wants to be loyal to the club. But maybe the fact Spurs have had a dip in form could be a blessing for England."

He added: "Maybe they (the FA) think they can announce it a bit earlier if Spurs are not going to qualify for the Champions League. But the sooner the better. It is a bit of a dilemma and you can understand the FA because they've got this club-versus-country situation. For the England fans and team, it has got to be done as soon as possible."

Shilton wants England to act quickly, particularly with former team-mate and caretaker boss Stuart Pearce indicating he is not ready to take the role on a long-term basis.

He said: "Although I played with Stuart and he has been involved with the FA a long time, the England fans deserve to have the man who is taking them forward for the next four years. Stuart, by his own admission, although he is 50, doesn't see himself as the man.

"I am also hoping by getting the new man in you will get that reaction you always get from the team when a new manager takes over. There is a bit of a spark, a bit of enthusiasm, you want to prove a point."

Shilton admitted he would have opted for Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill as Capello's successor but can see the merits in Redknapp and has called for an end to the constant under-achieving by England at tournaments.

He said: "I've felt for a while now that England should have been doing a lot better. I've not been totally impressed with the managers they've had. Although Capello's record is very good, it just wasn't right for the last World Cup with his preparation.

"Harry would be my choice if it was an English manager. It's his time. I know Spurs have had a dip in form but Harry is going to play football the right way. He will have the players' respect. He will pick players who play football and can entertain the public as well."

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