While we understand the huge level of interest in who will be appointed to manage the team after the World Cup, it is important we clarify that nobody has been authorised to lead any formal approaches.

At a meeting on 27 February The FA Board will consider proposals made by the three men appointed to formulate the recruitment process – FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick, International Committee Chairman Noel White and International Committee Vice-Chairman Dave Richards.

This meeting is expected to agree the process, not identify a list of candidates for the job. We should also be clear that The FA remains committed to appointing the best man for the job. To achieve this it is important that we take the necessary time to identify this person.

In doing so we are determined that this recruitment process does not disrupt or interfere with Sven-Goran Eriksson’s preparation for the World Cup.