Northern Ireland wanted Roy Hodgson

Northern Ireland wanted to make Roy Hodgson manager of their national team back in 2007, according to former Irish Football Association president Jim Boyce.

Hodgson was appointed as the successor to Fabio Capello and became the new England manager last month. Five years ago, he was targeted to become Lawrie Sanchez's replacement in charge of Northern Ireland but nothing materialised due to his commitment to Finland.

"Whenever Lawrie Sanchez resigned and went to Fulham there was a possibility that Roy could have ended up as Northern Ireland manager," FIFA vice-president Boyce told Sky Sports News.

"At that time he was manager of Finland and obviously he had to finish his contract with Finland, which didn't expire until November of that year.

"But the rest is history, so now he's manager of England and I think probably on a much higher salary than he would have got with Northern Ireland!

"I've known Roy for many years. He's very highly thought of at UEFA and I'm sure he will make an excellent choice as England manager."

Hodgson was made England boss while in charge of West Bromwich Albion.