Hodgson was just 28 when, soon after ending his playing days as a defender for Carshalton Athletic, he took over as manager of Halmstads, promptly leading the Swedish side to their first ever title.
But while stints in Finland, Switzerland, Italy, Denmark, Norway, the UAE and England make Hodgson among the most experienced coaches in the world, Dyke believes it is the 68-year-old’s unrelenting appetite for learning that marks out his greatness.
Roy Hodgson during his time with Switzerland in 1993
Dyke said: “Roy is a great example to any aspiring coach that being open to new experiences and cultures can really develop you as a person. His CV is quite remarkable and it is hard to think of another coach of his stature that has been prepared to learn and grow the way he has.
“According to the record books he started in Sweden in 1976 and here is about to take England to the European Finals in 2016, still inspiring and encouraging young players – good young English players.
“What a fantastic achievement – 40 years coaching at the level he has puts him up there with the great English coaches, much revered people like Sir Bobby Robson, Dave Sexton and Don Howe.
Paul Ince with Roy Hodgson at Inter Milan in 1996
Dyke also hailed Hodgson’s diplomacy, adaptability and the ease of which he communicates in different languages with players and fans alike.
He said: “I am constantly amazed by supporters' reaction to Roy if you go to a game with him. He is genuinely liked.
“He's probably done more for The FA's international relations than anyone!”
Greg Dyke
“It is fascinating; wherever we travel people from different countries seek out Roy to share an experience they had of watching one of his sides, or talking to him about a player he once would have managed, or a coach that he knew. He’s probably done more for The FA’s international relations than anyone!
“We’re very proud that, as England manager, Roy celebrates 40 years of coaching at the highest levels of our game. Long may it continue.”
