Mourinho dream over

Jose Mourinho has ruled himself out of the running for the England managerial job after meeting with FA representatives Brian Barwick and Trevor Brooking. The four candidates left are Marcello Lippi, Fabio Capello, Martin O'Neill and Jurgen Klinsmann.

A statement from Mourinho read: 'After Steve McClaren left the England football team, my representatives maintained contact with the FA.

'In that sense, I had myself useful discussions with Brian Barwick and Trevor where we exchanged ideas to evaluate the entire situation about the England squad and set the goals in case of real invitation being addressed to me.

'After deep and serious thinking, I decided to exclude myself from being England manager despite it being a fantastic position for me.

'I'm sure FA will hire a great manager, one able to place the team back where it belongs.

'I reiterate my respect for English football and, after three good years in England, I firmly believe that the England squad will soon be back to their usual great results.'