FORMER England international Wayne Bridge has backed Glenn Hoddle for a sensational return to international management.
Hoddle, 66, took charge of the Three Lions from 1996 to 1999 and managed the likes of David Beckham, Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand, Michael Owen and Alan Shearer.
He recorded 17 wins, four draws and seven defeats with England but was eventually sacked and replaced by Kevin Keegan.
Despite his dismissal, Hoddle received high praise from those that played under him.
Ferdinand hailed him as “by far the best England manager,” while Shearer has claimed he is “one of the greats”.
And although Hoddle has been out of management for 18 years, Bridge – who played under his guidance at Southampton – believes he could still do a great job leading England.
The former Three Lions star, who has teamed up with Betfred ahead of Euro 2024, exclusively told SunSport: “I’ve said it before and it’s Glenn Hoddle, just because I love him as a manager.
“He’s unbelievable, he was ahead of his time. Tactically really good. On the mental side, he was miles ahead of the game and in terms of how players prepare mentally.”
Bridge then went on to reveal that Newcastle boss Eddie Howe would be another one of his top picks, adding: “Obviously if we’re going for someone more current I’d like to keep it English so I’d probably go with Howe.”
He also picked Premier League icon Harry Redknapp as an option – albeit for entertainment purposes.
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The ex-Chelsea star continued: “As a wildcard I’d probably chuck in Harry Redknapp just because I love him and I’d love to see what he would do!”
The Three Lions are currently managed by Southgate, but reports have suggested the 53-year-old could step down after Euro 2024.
Bridge admits he would like to see him stay at the helm if England go all the way and lift the trophy.
He concluded: “If he wins it I’d like to see him stay. Stepping down, it’s never easy for anyone.
“You’re never going to please everyone. I think he takes criticism really well, believes in his own ways which is a good thing because otherwise you get swayed by people you don’t want to get swayed by, so I just think he’s got to go about his business.”
