Sir Geoff Hurst has admitted that he was surprised to learn that the Football Association had made an approach to discuss the vacant England job with Roy Hodgson.

Former England striker Hurst had expected Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp to be handed the role at the end of the season.

However, it now appears that Redknapp will lose out to his West Brom counterpart Hodgson.

"I thought Harry was probably the outstanding candidate at the time because he has had success with Tottenham at a higher level," said Hurst. "He's been involved in the Champions League and that's been good experience for him.

"He was the media favourite and the fans' favourite, so it was a bit of a surprise when the FA turned to Roy Hodgson.

"But Roy is a nice man, he has some good football qualifications and I wish him all the best in the job if he chooses to accept it."

Hodgson will reportedly discuss terms with the FA later today.