Roy Hodgson resigns: Slaven Bilic not 'slightest bit interested' in England job, says West Ham co-chairman David Gold
Hodgson vacated his post in the immediate aftermath of England’s farcical Euro 2016 exit
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Slaven Bilić, the West Ham boss, would not be “the slightest bit interested” in succeeding Roy Hodgson as England manager, according to the east London club’s co-chairman David Gold.
Hodgson vacated his post in the aftermath of England’s farcical Euro 2016 exit in France, brought about by a 2-1 second-round defeat by minnows Iceland on Monday, before the Football Association suggested they could approach a foreign coach.
Bilić worked with the Croatia national side for six years before leaving for Lokomotiv Moscow in 2012, notably beating Steve McClaren’s England at Wembley in 2008 – a result which saw the hosts miss out on qualification for Euro 2008.
“He managed his own country and I don't believe he would be the slightest bit interested in taking on England,” Gold told Sky Sports.
“He told us at his interview for this position that his mission was to manage at the highest level in England - the Premier League - with the club he loves West Ham United. England is simply not part of Slaven's mission.
“He is a very, very loyal man. He is loyal to his backroom team and to the board. We have backed him 100 per cent and he us - our commitment to each other is total.
“This is his club and he is on his way to great thing at the Olympic Stadium. I don't believe he will be tempted away by anything.
“Slaven has clearly caught the imagination not only of West Ham fans, but those around the country with his TV appearances - but England? No, I am totally convinced that won't happen. The most important issue is whether he would want it and I don't believe he would. His passion and commitment to this club is total.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments