Farron calls for world class coach to lead England

3.00.00pm GMT Thu 22nd Nov 2007

Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron will today table a parliamentary motion in the wake of England's disastrous end to their European championship qualifying campaign calling on the Football Association to reinstate the home internationals next summer and move to recruit a world class coach.

All four of the home nations failed in their bid to qualify for a major championship for the first time in over a decade, which will leave football fans bereft of competitive international football for almost a year. There are also serious financial implications, the 'feel good factor' generated by a successful campaign normally leads to a huge boost for the UK economy.

Mr Farron, a Blackburn Rovers fan, said:

"Like football fans up and down Britain I am bitterly disappointed at the recent results. Next summer won't be the same without an international tournament to follow and the reinstatement of the home internationals would provide some small solace to the supporters.

"Beyond that, attention must turn to qualification for the World Cup in 2010, and to ensure that this happens the Football Association should move swiftly to appoint a coach of the highest calibre. I think Mr Mourinho is looking for a job."