Wenger backs Hodgson to succeed in 2012 role

ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger has backed Roy Hodgson to take the reins of Great Britain's football team at the London 2012 Olympics.

 BIG PRAISE: Arsene Wenger tips Hodgson to succeed at Great Britain helm in 2012

Hodgson, currently in charge at Fulham, has a wealth of experience in management across Europe, including spells in control of the Switzerland and Finland.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had originally been touted as the preferred choice, but that was ruled out when it became clear only English players would compete for Great Britain.

FA chairman Lord Triesman has confirmed he is now looking for an English coach and Wenger, who takes his side to Craven Cottage on Saturday, believes Hodgson is the perfect man for the job.

"There's no surprise at all because I think he's a man of intelligence, of big experience and is completely entitled to lead the Olympic team of England.

"Of course he's among the top of the English managers; you look at his CV."