Andy Sinton says new boss has got to be English

AFC Telford United boss Andy Sinton today joined the clamour to see an English manager succeed Fabio Capello.

Sinton, who earned 12 caps for his country between 1991 and 1993, believes hot favourite Harry Redknapp would be a good choice – but also suggested West Brom chief Roy Hodgson and England under-21s boss Stuart Pearce could also come into the equation.

"I'm an Englishman through and through, and I'd like to see an Englishman in the job," said Sinton, who went to the 1992 European Championships with his country.

"Whether it's Harry Redknapp on a short-term basis or Roy Hodgson, who's doing a good job at West Brom, or Stuart Pearce stepping up I don't know.

"There are no other outstanding candidates.

"I'm sure the players would go on the record if you interviewed them now and toe the party line.

"But, deep down, I would have thought most people share the view that it should be an English manager of the team."

Sinton also questioned the lack of trust shown to English managers who had worked hard to get their UEFA?coaching qualifications.

All managers in the Premier League have to obtain the Pro Licence while many more have worked hard to achieve their A?and B?coaching badges.

Foreign managers

"You have to ask what value is put on the qualifications when English players work to obtain them but are then overlooked for jobs in favour of foreign coaches," he added.

"I?was on a coaching course a few years ago and was lucky enough to be there with several Manchester United players.

"I?won't name them because that wouldn't be fair, but they were top, top players. One of those players asked if it's such a good coaching system then why do we keep appointing foreign managers. I?thought it was a good question."

Meanwhile, Sinton backed the FA?in their stance over John Terry – with the decision to strip him of the captaincy over racism charges directly leading to Capello's resignation.

"His (Capello's) view was that someone is innocent until proven guilty and I?think there's a bit to be said for that,"?Sinton admitted.

"I?just think that because of the nature of the allegation and the fact that it was going to be hanging over their heads until after the European Championships, the FA?had to take a lead.

"They employ the manager and when you are employed by someone you have to put up or shut up. I?think he (Capello)?maybe came out a bit too strong with saying he'd been undermined."

See also:

• England players react on Twitter to Fabio Capello resignation

• ‘Gutted’ Rooney backs Redknapp

• Capello quits as England manager