Paul Merson is baffled by speculation linking Arsene Wenger to the England job and insists the Arsenal manager is not fit to take on the role.
Following Roy Hodgson’s resignation, reports this week have claimed Gunners boss Wenger is high on the Football Association’s shortlist as they search for their next permanent boss.
Gareth Southgate, Laurent Blanc and Luiz Felipe Scolari are also among the men linked with the role, with FA chief Martin Glenn telling talkSPORT he ‘isn’t bothered’ about the nationality of their next manager.
Whoever is eventually chosen will be charged with rebuilding England’s confidence following their embarrassing exit from Euro 2016 against Iceland.
And former England and Arsenal forward Merson believes Wenger is not fit to take on the job.
Speaking on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, the Gunners legend said: “They’re talking about Arsene Wenger, but every year we talk about Arsenal not winning the Premier League because tactically he’s not right.
“Arsene is a real hands-on coach, he does all the training, he does everything. But with international football you only see the players every now and then and there’s a lot of sitting around.
“I think it’s a part-time job anyway. You’re essentially paying someone £7million for a part-time job. Every player plays in the Premier League, so it’s not like you’ve got to travel all around the world to see them play. They all play here!”
Merson has also joined them any famous names in backing Glenn Hoddle for a return to the Wembley dugout, after Harry Redknapp told talkSPORT the former Three Lions and Tottenham boss was ‘perfect’ for the job.
“We should have an English manager, that’s just my opinion,” Merson added.
“I know he’s been England manager before, and it’s been a while since he’s had a job, but for me it’s got to be Glenn Hoddle. It’s a no brainer.
“I think tactically he’d be great and he’s got knowledge of international football. I thought he was brilliant when he was in charge at France 98.
“I would like to see him take Gareth Southgate and Alan Shearer with him for a couple of years, to shadow him, learn how good he is and what he does.
“They can then take over after that and be in charge for the next Euros.”
Listen to talkSPORT’s interview with Paul Merson, including a brilliant rant about Roy Hodgson, IN FULL above!