Why Roy Hodgson Is England Manager And Not Harry Redknapp

As Roy Hodgson is announced as England's new manager today, the media and several thousand fans ask: why not Harry Redknapp? The Spurs boss was tipped for the role almost as soon as Fabio Capello resigned in early February but the FA have revealed plans to appoint West Brom manager Roy Hodgson at a 4pm press conference in London today. So why didn't Harry get the job? Hodgson has won out because he is probably the safer option to the FA. With Harry Redknapp in charge of a Spurs squad heading for greatness and under a long-term contract at the North London club, the FA might have thought it foolish to disturb the balance at White Hart Lane and pay the extortionist amount of compensation Spurs would require in losing their manager. Redknapp's release clause was rumoured to be around the £80 million mark. Hodgson's contract with WBA isn't as lucrative and expires this summer anyway. Basically he can come in for nothing... Additionally the FA might have thought that with his recent health issues it might have been a step too far to appoint him as head of the national team. There's no greater stress in English football than an International tournament, perhaps even Harry was advised not to take it. Hodgson definitely seems to be a more relaxed manager, even in his press conferences he has an air of tranquility about him. After a downturn in Tottenham's season, maybe the selection panel felt Redknapp wasn't cut out for the job after all. Especially since Hodgson's West Brom side have been overachievers this year, currently sitting comfortably in tenth. Even with his recent history at Liverpool, Hodgson remains one of the top choices. One of the key factors in the decision to appoint Hodgson surely has to be his managerial CV. He has managed 16 clubs in 8 countries and took Switzerland to both a World Cup and European Championship tournament. Redknapp can't boast international experience. Even if the FA decline to comment on how the decision was made, there are still questions to be asked once the appointment is announced later today (Tuesday). Such as, will Hodgson select his Euro 2012 team or will the FA elect Stuart Pearce (who has been on a scouting mission for months) in that role? Will the nation welcome him as manager if the Euros are a failure? What will happen if England do really well?