Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein admits he pushed for Luiz Felipe Scolari for England manager ahead of Steve McClaren's appointment.

He said: "It was no secret I favoured Luis Felipe Scolari last time, but everyone said that was heresy.

"A lot of people wanted an England manager when Sven left - now public opinion is saying just go for the best.

"Unfortunately Steve McClaren didn't work out. It would be heresy to say there is no English manager worthy of the job. I just believe you have to go for the best man whatever nationality."

Dein, speaking at the Soccerex conference in Johannesburg, said: "Who is the best candidate? Arsene Wenger, but he won't do the job.

"In a selection process it would be folly to ignore Gerard Houllier, his ability and what he has achieved.

"He is not the technical director of the French national team for nothing."