No way Jose for England

Mourinho: Out of England running

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Jose Mourinho has ruled himself out of the running for the England manager's job, but has confirmed that he did hold talks with the Football Association.

The former Chelsea boss was one of the leading candidates to replace Steve McClaren, but he has opted against a move into international management at this time in his career.

Mourinho - who has been strongly linked with a summer move to Milan - revealed that he and his agent both spoke with FA chief executive Brian Barwick and director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking.

The FA denied on Friday that they had met with any potential candidates, but according to Mourinho's statement which he released on Monday to Gestifute, (the website of his agent Jorge Mendes), they did hold extensive talks with the Portuguese coach.

"After Steve McClaren left the England football team, my representatives maintained contact with the FA.

Meeting

"In that sense, I had myself useful discussions with Brian Barwick and Trevor Brooking 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 being a fantastic position for me.

"I'm sure the 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."

With Mourinho out of the running, Italian Fabio Capello - who has admitted he wants the job - is clear favourite with the bookmakers ahead of fellow countryman Marcello Lippi.

Click here to see the market with SkyBet