Scolari wants to succeed Hodgson as new England manager

London :Former Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has expressed desire to succeed Roy Hodgson as the new manager of the England football team.

The 67-year-old, who led Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002, was in contention to become England boss in 2006 before he ruled himself out from the post due to intense scrutiny from the English media.

Scolari, however, insisted that he would be willing to opt for the role if given opportunity now.

“I am the manager of Guangzhou and I am concentrating on my job here. But I know the importance of the England job in world football. I’ve an affection for English football and I am aware of the need for the national team to be successful,” Scolariwas quoted as saying by goal.com.

Although Scolari is concentrating on his current job as Guangzhou manager, he completely understands the importance of what being international manager is.

“I understand the importance of an international manager from my time with Brazil and Portugal.”

Gareth Southgat, who is currently a manager of England Under-21 team, was among frontrunner to succeed Hodgson, but he has reportedly refused the role, even on an interim basis.

Hodgson stepped down from his post after the side’s humiliating defeat at the hands of underdogs Iceland that also saw them crash out of the Euro 2016.(ANI)