Sam Allardyce: Arsene Wenger refusal paved the way for England manager appointment

The Football Association had originally identified the Arsenal boss as their top target

England's next manager (Getty)

Sam Allardyce has been appointed as the new England manager – but only after Arsene Wenger turned down the opportunity to succeed Roy Hodgson.

The Football Association had identified Wenger as their top target and approached the 66-year-old with the promise that the England job was his if he wanted it, according to the Telegraph.

Although Wenger was not willing to break the final year of his Arsenal contract, it remained unclear how prepared the Frenchman was to take on the role in a year’s time.

It seems that the lack of uncertainty surrounding Wenger, and his reluctance to accept the initial offer, eventually forced the FA to look elsewhere.

Once it had become clear that Wenger was not a viable option, the FA began conducting interviews with Allardyce, Steve Bruce and other candidates but it became quickly apparent that ‘Big Sam’ had emerged as the organisation’s preferred candidate.

Allardyce had the backing of a number of big names in the build-up to his appointment.

Allardyce's official appointment is expected today (Getty)

Sir Alex Ferguson publicly lent his support to the former Bolton Wanderers manager, remarking that: "He's got many years of club football behind him and the confidence and the reputation.

"He's certainly the top Englishman. You can search the world for a top manager but it was right to appoint an Englishman."

Jose Mourinho has also backed Allardyce. Speaking from China, the Manchester United boss said: “I think he is the right person for that, I think he’s a good choice but I think he needs support and I think you can do better in respect to that.

“Because my experience in your country shows me that in the football world you could do a bit better. I think Sam never had the big chance at the highest level…[but] I think he’s more than ready.

“He’s a good motivator, he can create a good team spirit with his players and I wish him the best from my side – not just as a friend but my side as the Manchester United manager.”

Jose Mourinho has given Sam Allardyce his seal of approval as England manager (Getty)

‘Big Sam’ is expected to be offered a two-year contract, which will take him through England’s 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign and right up to the finals in Russia.

The FA must now agree a compensation package for Allardyce with Sunderland demanding an excess of £2m from the organisation.

According to the Evening Standard, Sunderland are furious about the manner in which the FA has conducted itself and the disruption it has caused the club.