Harry Redknapp thinks chance to manage England gone forever

failed with a bold move to bring in Carlos Tevez (Getty Images)

Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp believes his chances of ever becoming England manager have gone but is not too downcast about this week's snub.

Redknapp became the overwhelming favourite to succeed Fabio Capello after the Italian quit the national post in February but the Football Association unexpectedly opted for West Brom chief Roy Hodgson.

With Hodgson appointed on a four-year contract, 65-year-old Redknapp accepts an opportunity for him may not arise again.

Redknapp said: "No I don't think it will happen now - I wouldn't think it would ever happen now.

"I wish Roy all the best. He has got four years and I hope he sees the four years out.

"I hope he brings great success in the Euros. I think he will pick a squad capable of giving it a really good go.

"I think we have got some fantastic players in this country and I think Roy will do a great job."

The FA have made clear Hodgson was their only candidate and Redknapp was not interviewed or even contacted despite his huge public backing.

Redknapp insists the lack of an approach did not upset him.

Speaking after Spurs' Barclays Premier League win at Bolton last night, Redknapp said: "Not really, honestly. I don't feel that at all, it is done. End of story, move on. Get behind the manager, forget me.

"I am not bothered. I am lucky, I have got a great job.

"There are blokes about cleverer than me managing lower division clubs.

"I am lucky I am managing a top-five club, one of the best clubs in the country.

"I didn't wake up on Monday morning and think, 'What has happened to my life? I'm not the England manager'."

Redknapp thinks that, having decided Hodgson was the man the wanted, the FA handled the matter correctly.

He said: "I don't think Roy would have gone for an interview if he was going to be interviewed with someone else - I certainly wouldn't have done.

"I don't think that would have worked - going back to your club with your tail between your legs.

"They made up their mind, they wanted Roy and that is good enough for me."

Redknapp now has two games remaining of a season which was disrupted by a high-profile court case.

He said: "I am looking forward to a summer holiday.

"I have had a difficult year. Lots of people have had more difficult years but it has been fairly difficult.

"I am looking forward to getting a break."

PA