Queens Park Rangers manager Neil Warnock has backed Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp to become the next manager of England.

Warnock said that Redknapp's ability to understand players and his fondness for telling a joke make him an ideal candidate for the job.

"We should never minimise the role banter and leg-pulling plays in the dressing-room and on the training field," Warnock said. "Humour is so important in this game, even more so at international level.

"When you are on the boil, it's the off-the-cuff remark that gets a laugh or gets a player wanting to do a little bit more for you. That is one of Harry's great strengths.

"He understands players, he knows what makes them tick, knows how to get the best out of them and knows how to make them laugh."

Warnock also said that the schedule associated with the England job would be ideal for Redknapp following his recent heart operation.

"Yes, I know he has had his heart scare but the operation seems to have been quite routine while his recovery is extremely manageable," Warnock commented.

"In fact, the England job would be perfect for him. He could pace himself and take time off when required. Except, of course, he won't."

England take on Spain in a friendly at Wembley on Saturday.