Scolari Wanted England Job

Last Updated : 22-Jun-2006 by
The Portugal manager had talks with the FA in April about taking over from Sven-Goran Eriksson but decided to rule himself out of the job because, he said, the Football Association wanted to appoint the new England manager before the World Cup began.

"They needed to announce the new England coach in a period that was impossible for me," he told the BBC.

"Also I wanted to bring my staff to support me in my job - and this possibility was not very clear.

"Everything was going well but we stopped at a crucial point for both of us.

"They needed to announce the new England coach in a period that was impossible for me. I have a contract until 31st July with Portugal.

"We created a very good relationship but the problem was, the person I am, I couldn't decide to be a coach of another country before a World Cup when I was representing Portugal.

"Imagine if I meet England during the World Cup and I have to say to my players, 'Die for Portugal'. I only can say to my players what I really feel.

"Perhaps in Europe it's normal but I am Brazilian and I didn't feel good in that situation.

"Being coach of England is a dream for every coach in the world and I was very happy when the talks happened.

"I liked the people I met from the FA very much. I hope people understand the situation and one day, why not, I can coach the English team, when I am free."