Full-time Fletch... on the new England manager

I don’t want to dwell too much on England’s early exit from Euro 2016, but their performance against Iceland was as bad a tournament defeat as I have ever seen. It was spineless, clueless and, unfortunately, highlights once again that we are a team of flat track bullies. When our backs are against the wall, we don’t turn up.

Because of the selection decisions Roy Hodgson made in the group stages, we were essentially starting from scratch against Iceland with some players on the pitch having played very little football in almost two weeks.

Huge credit to Iceland for the win but it shouldn’t disguise how bad a performance that really was from England.

Hoddle is my man​

In my view, it should be Glenn Hoddle as the new manager. He had a pretty successful stint in charge of the national team previously; he’s tactically astute, sharp and would immediately command the respect of players because he’s represented England at the highest level. The only thing against him is that he hasn’t been active in management for some time.

We don’t need a guy that has a track record of building clubs over many years, like Arsene Wenger. We need someone who is charismatic and can motivate and inspire the players. Someone who is an excellent man manager and has the tactical nous to compete against the top teams.

Continuity necessary​

Whoever the FA give the job to, there has to be a proper succession plan in place. There have been too many instances where the assistant manager or coach has been jettisoned when the manager has lost his job.

I’d like to see Hoddle working alongside an up-and-coming coach on a long-term project, with a proper plan in place for that individual taking charge in three years’ time. That way you get sustainability and continuity of selection and style of play. It’s what Germany did when they appointed Joachim Low when Jurgen Klinsmann left. No one had really heard of him and look at the success he’s had now.

We need a manager that is going to restore pride in the national team, get our players competing and have a real go at winning a tournament. Not a team that’s going to go out with a whimper and with our tails between our legs. As a football fan and an England fan, I want to feel proud of our performances, even if we don’t end up winning a World Cup or a European Championship.

As a country, we are in danger of falling out of love with the national team. Yes, the fans will always travel to tournaments and support the team but the players need to start repaying that faith. It’s imperative the FA get the right man that can build a team that will excite the nation and make us proud again.