Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has revealed that Eddie Howe, widely regarded as the leading English candidate for the England managerial role, was never contacted by the Football Association (FA) amid the search for Gareth Southgate’s successor.
Reports on Tuesday indicated that former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel had reached an agreement to become the new England boss. The FA began its search after Southgate resigned following England’s runner-up finish at Euro 2024. Interim manager Lee Carsley has been in charge since August and will continue for England’s upcoming Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
While there had been speculation about potential candidates, including Pep Guardiola, Graham Potter, Frank Lampard, and Eddie Howe, Shearer stated on *The Rest Is Football* podcast that Howe, Newcastle’s manager, was never approached by the FA.
“I’m told they didn’t speak to Eddie Howe or sound him out, which is a big surprise for me,” Shearer said. He expressed astonishment that Howe, who he described as the “outstanding English candidate,” wasn’t even considered for the role. Shearer added that while he’s not opposed to a German manager leading England, he questioned the FA’s commitment to developing English coaches, especially given the resources invested in training and development.
Tuchel’s appointment has raised eyebrows, with Shearer acknowledging Tuchel’s qualifications but expressing concerns about the lack of opportunities for English managers. Despite his surprise, Shearer also pointed out that Newcastle fans might be relieved, as they won’t be losing their manager anytime soon.
Eddie Howe has been Newcastle’s manager since November 2021, leading the team to a fourth-place finish in the Premier League last season and guiding them to the final of the Carabao Cup. While Howe was considered a top candidate for the England role, his future remains firmly at Newcastle United.
