Football: FA to keep up pursuit of Howe

DON HOWE is to be offered the post of England caretaker- manager, following Graham Taylor's resignation, despite stating categoricaly he is not interested in the job in any shape or form, writes Clive White.

Peter Swales, the chairman of the Football Association's International Committee, is the man who will not take no for an answer. The reluctant Howe, who was England coach for eight years under Bobby Robson, will be asked in the next few days if he will take charge for the games against Denmark on 9 March and Germany on 20 April.

'Apart from discussing Don Howe we didn't come up with anybody else,' Swales said. 'I've read Don's comments, but we are still hopeful we can get him to take on the commitment. There is no rush to make a caretaker appointment, but we would expect to have someone in place before Christmas.'

Howe, who underwent triple heart-bypass surgery five years ago, has said he is not interested in a high-profile position with England but would be prepared 'to help out someone young like Ray Wilkins'.

An alternative to Howe could be John Lyall, the Ipswich general manager, and Swales said his was a name 'you would think about for that type of role'. Another name gaining support, but with a view to a more permanent position, is that of Terry Venables.

His was the name that Howe put forward and yesterday Mike Walker, the Norwich manager, seconded that 'nomination,' while believing his own Welsh birthright put himself out of contention. 'Apart from the obvious troubles off the park, he should be the man and I'm glad to see a lot of people backing him now,' Walker said. 'All I hope is that the next England manager will pick players with ball skill and flair.'

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