Gary Neville theory emerges after Eddie Howe verdict draws sharp response from Newcastle fans

The former Manchester United defender had backed Eddie Howe to take over as Three Lions boss

Newcastle United supporters have been quick to point out a theory as to why Gary Neville was so keen for Eddie Howe to be appointed as England manager. The former Manchester United full-back recently gave the Magpies boss and fellow English manager Graham Potter is his full backing after Thomas Tuchel was unveiled as Three Lions boss.

“I think there are some serious questions for the FA to answer in respect of English coaching,” Neville told Sky Sports. “I do think that we are damaging ourselves, accepting that Thomas Tuchel is better than any of the other English candidates.

“With the likes of Graham Potter, who has managed in the higher echelons of the Premier League, we’ve got Eddie Howe currently at Newcastle. I do think there are outstanding candidates that could have been appointed that are English.”

With Newcastle performing better than Manchester United this season, some readers have suggested Neville wanted Howe to be England boss in an attempt to influence the Toon's push for European football. Here's what ChronicleLive readers had to say in response to Neville's comments:

Tony1971 said: "The thing is Nev maybe they spoke to Howe & Potter & maybe they said they weren’t interested! Maybe they didn’t speak to either of them but to say they should of appointed one of them is poppycock as you aren’t in the loop."

Paranoidandroid commented: "So, at the end of the day: we didn't want Eddie to get the England job, Eddie didn't want the England job and the FA didn't want him for the England job! So basically, there was never a story! Let's get back to the league and focus on what matters!"

N.Shields lad said: "Gary Neville only wanted Howe to get the England job because he wants Newcastle to be less of a challenge for Man Utd in the league, but they are still not good enough for that and Man Utd will fail."

SusexMal said: "If we’re talking about major trophies won, then Tuchel is 100% better than Howe or Potter. England have had so many ‘nearly’ men, it’s time to get this ‘over the line’.

"Personally I’m quite pleased with Tuchel appointment, at least everyone will shut up about Eddie Howe now and he can get on with the more important job."

Rustycrow commented: "Can’t understand why any top class manager would want to be in charge of England. It's always the same boring football no matter who is boss. The supposed best players in the land doesn't necessarily make the best team."

Newcastle United transfer news straight to your phone on WhatsApp

It's quick and easy to join. Just click this link and select 'Join Community' to get started.

Plus you can follow our new Newcastle United channel right here - just follow this link

Your informational will be hidden, you'll only ever receive messages from the Chronicle Live sports team, and you can leave any time you like. For more information, click here. You can read our Privacy Notice here.