Hodgson given England backing by West Brom assistant Downing

Posted Saturday, May 05, 2012 by YAHOO Sport

West Brom assistant manager Keith Downing has given his support to the new England boss Roy Hodgson, insisting that the 64-year-old has the skills required for the role.

The former Liverpool manager was officially unveiled in his new role on Tuesday, signing a four-year deal.

Whilst some have questioned whether Hodgson has what it takes to handle the pressures involved with the national job, but Downing is confident he can cope.

''This is the pinnacle of his career. There is no better man at it in terms of experience and dealing with situations,” Downing told the the Press Association. "He has gone around the world and dealt with different people like the Inter Milan experience. He dealt with the senior players there. He has handled all that.

''There is all this doubt about can he deal with senior players, was the Liverpool job too big for him, etc. We all put a different spin on but the bottom line is every player who has worked with him - and you can ask Steven Gerrard and people like that - will back that up''.

Downing is certain Hodgson can handle the intense scrutiny that goes hand-in-hand with the position, adding that the former Inter manager’s tactical approach is meticulous enough to succeed on the international stage.

"I think he is aware of the magnitude of being analysed every single day. He is big enough and wise enough to handle those criticisms.'' he continued. "Is he the right man? We will find out and he is aware results are the most important thing, but I can assure everyone it will be diligently thought out.

"His work will be with a massive enthusiasm for someone who is 64, he is out there on the training ground every day, every detail is covered, the players are always learning. Even the senior players at England will pick up things, it will all be well prepared and hopefully for Roy, England will get some good results."

The Baggies assistant also revealed that he will not be applying to replace Hodgson as Hawthorns boss, but left the door open to joining his former manager on the international stage.

"I will not put myself forward for the Albion job," he said. "It is for someone who has a bit more experience at this moment in time. Will I being going to England? There are a lot of questions to be answered. We will prepare for the end of the season and then see what happens."