Following England’s disqualification from the Euro 2008 tournament last week and manager Steve McClaren’s immediate dismissal, it was widely reported that former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho preemptively stated he had no interest in the job. This prompted many fans adrift without a manager or a clear future for the national team to ask: “Why?”

Mourinho’s record both in England and abroad has instilled confidence; he consistently emerges as a favorite for the position in fan forums across the Internet. He’s enjoyed two league titles at FC Porto and two at Chelsea FC. He led Porto to victory in the UEFA League and Cup. For two years he held the International Federation of Football History and Statistics honor of best manager.

Despite his sudden and controversial departure from Chelsea in September, Mourinho remains a figure many England fans trust. The start to Chelsea’s 2007 season was rocky, but supporters remember his successes with one of the EPL’s top teams. Under his watchful eye Chelsea won six trophies in half as many years and elevated the English record for unbeaten home streak.

Mourinho knows English players and he knows the international game. He’s also conveniently unemployed. But he was quick to disavow any desire to lead the England squad, though no clear reason was circulated. Now, nearly a week since England’s crushing defeat, Mourinho has expressed a change of heart.

‘Tell the FA to come and get me.’

Fans are left as puzzled by his interest as they were by his disinterest. Mourinho’s motives are unclear, but his timing could place him in an advantageous position for negotiations. Supporters have been carrying the Mourinho flag with disappointment and hope he’d reconsider. Now those fans will wave his flag madly in an attempt to get the FA’s attention.

With this 180 degree turn Mourinho may now emerge as a prime candidate for England manager. His experience suggests he has the know-how, and he has the fans’ faith. Whether or not he’s approached by the FA to take the national helm remains to be seen. But they’ll find him receptive to consideration for the monumental task of breathing life back into the men’s senior squad.

‘We will have to wait and see, but I rule nothing out.’

Source [ESPN]

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