Harry Redknapp gives backing to Glenn Hoddle to succeed Stuart Pearce as England Under-21 coach

The Young Lions endured a disastrous European Championships

Glenn Hoddle (GETTY IMAGES)

Harry Redknapp believes England are lacking direction and has called for Glenn Hoddle to return to the national set-up as Under-21s manager.

Stuart Pearce's Young Lions crashed out of the European Championship in Israel after losing all three of their group games against Italy, Norway and the host nation.

Redknapp, who had been widely tipped to be named England manager before Roy Hodgson was awarded the top job, thinks English football needs to change and there should be an overhaul in tactics.

"We do not know how to play football," the QPR manager told The Sun.

"It (the changes) has to come from the very top of the game. That means manager Roy Hodgson getting involved with coaches at every level working in the same direction.

"In international football you cannot just hit and hope as you give the ball away. It's about possession, retaining the ball, controlling the game. We need coaches who believe in that ideal.

"The last time we had an England team which looked to be heading in the right direction was under Glenn Hoddle.

"That's why I think he would be a great choice to become the new Under-21 manager or to get involved in coaching of kids."

Pearce's contract expires at the end of the month and it is expected it will not be renewed following the Under-21's dismal performance in Israel.

The former England defender was appointed Young Lions coach in February 2007 and he led them to the European Championship final four years ago, where they eventually lost 4-0 to Germany.

Along with Hoddle, Redknapp also tipped former England boss Steve McClaren to make his return to the national side.

He said: "Steve McClaren would be a good choice. Since working at FC Twente in Holland I bet he was learned a lot about how to play football the right way.

"There's a footballer inside every player desperate to get out - if only we'd let him."

PA