Hodgson is new England boss

England players stay quiet on Hodgson appointment

Newly appointed England manager Roy Hodgson
Roy Hodgson poses with the England jersey behind him, but will the England players be? Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Images/POOL/PA Wire.

The Football Association announced earlier today that Roy Hodgson would take over as England manager.

FA Chairman David Bernstein said Hodgson's previous experience of international and tournament football was a key factor in appointing him. He led Switzerland to the 1994 World Cup and also managed Finland.The 64-year-old manager of West Brom has signed up for a four year contract.

The FA were keen to stress he was the only man for the job, and refused to answer any questions on the "people's choice" Harry Redknapp.

Bernstein also insisted that financial issues - Hodgson's contract with West Brom ends in June - were not a factor.

As a surprise appointment, Hodgson himself admitted he had a tough task ahead of him. He used the press conference to appeal to fans to get behind the England team and made it clear he expected the team to get behind him.

There was a distinct lack of support shown by his players, with the exception of Jack Wilshire:

Jackwilshere?size=bigger

Not many have the experience that Roy Hodgson, proved he is a top manager at international level so don't see no reason why he can't do it

From @JackWilshere on Twitter:

Many of the England players had publicly said in February they wanted Harry Redknapp for the job.

Hodgson said during the press conference he would definitely be putting Rooney on his Euro 2012 squad. Rooney gave no reaction today on twitter.

Rio Ferdinand has also previously voiced his support for Harry Redknapp:

Rioferdy5?size=bigger

I think we need an English manager now, we don't need anything else lost in translation....Harry Redknapp would be my choice by a distance.

From @rioferdy5 on Twitter:

Tonight former England captain Steven Gerrard said he welcomed the appointment:

I've worked with Roy. He's a good man and a good manager. It's important he's given a chance and I'm looking forward to working with him again.''

– Steven Gerrard

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