England yapata wa kumrithi Capello

ROY HODGSON will appeal for the backing of England’s fans after the FA approached him last night to become the new national manager.

The FA have snubbed favourite Harry Redknapp in favour of the West Brom chief as their choice to replace Fabio Capello.

Hodgson, 64, is the only boss to have been approached and formal talks are expected today. 

But Hodgson, sacked by Liverpool only 16 months ago, knows he will have to win over sceptical supporters as England head to Euro 2012 if, as expected, he accepts the offer. 

Earlier this season, he told SunSport: “I would hope if I was offered the England job, it would be with the backing of the important people — the fans and media. 

“It’s going to be very difficult for anyone who has not got their backing. 

“Even if you’ve the competence and are maybe the right person, you need to be perceived as the right person. It’s important you have the fans’ support.” 

Hodgson, who has also managed Switzerland, the UAE and Finland, was quickly congratulated by Redknapp. 

The Tottenham manager said: “Good luck to Roy. I can see my future at Tottenham and I would like to stay. But that is down to the chairman.” 

Hodgson will come a good deal cheaper than Redknapp, as his West Brom contract is up on June 30.

He also ticks the boxes for the FA because he is very much committed to their coaching project involving the new centre at Burton. 

Hodgson has a vast and up-to-date knowledge of European football, having been a UEFA spy for the last 16 years. 

He has been to every European Championships since 1996, compiled dossiers on all the top countries and has previously declared: 

“I enjoy international football because you are working with the best players.

“I’m a great admirer of the England team. 

“It’s the most important English football job in the country. 

“We have the players, we always have had. I don’t think any job is impossible.

“We work in a league where football of a very high quality is played and produce players most people would regard as top European standard.” 

An FA statement revealed Albion have granted permission for Hodgson to be contacted about taking the England post. 

This follows an approach from FA chairman David Bernstein to West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace.

Peace declared: “Roy has done a fantastic job over the past 15 months.