Hoddle offer to FA: Let me help Sven

Michael Hart13 April 2012

Former England coach Glenn Hoddle today offered to help Sven-Goran Eriksson, the man who has just taken the job.

Hoddle was driven from office by the row which followed remarks he made about disabled people, but he is ready to help Eriksson cope with the unique pressures of the job.

Hoddle said: "I'd love to help him. If he calls me I'd be delighted to tell him what went on during my time as England manager."

Hoddle, 43, completes a year as manager this weekend and marks the anniversary with a match at Tottenham, the club with whom he began his playing career.

Some Spurs fans want Hoddle to return to their club as manager but he refused to talk about that situation, other than to say: "It's always a pleasure to go back."

Instead, he offered unstinting support for Eriksson, the first foreigner to be given the job of leading England.

Hoddle was England coach for just over two years and is convinced that his own experiences could help Eriksson.

In a clear message to the Football Association, Hoddle said: "As a foreign coach coming here it will feel a bit strange to him at first so I think it would be an astute move on his part to seek the opinions of other England coaches. The thoughts of someone like Terry Venables would be invaluable to him. I'm sure all the former England managers would help.

"I can talk only for myself, but I'm also sure he would have the support of all the Premiership managers too. It's a difficult job and I wish him well. I'm a patriot and want to see England competing at the highest level."

Late in Hoddle's playing career at Monaco he appeared in a team under Eriksson's management. He added: "I was asked to play in a charity match for a European XI in Canada. Sven was the manager of the European side. It was the first time I'd met him. He was very charming."

If Hoddle is invited to talk to Eriksson he will promote the claims of Southampton's 20-year-old Wayne Bridge. Hoddle said: "I can't tell him who to pick but this lad is a naturally left-footed defender of outstanding potential."

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