Wallowing in Euro 2008 misery the Football Association of England say the sacking of national team manager Steve McClaren was a unanimous decision.
Under fire chief executive Brian Barwick apologised to the nation following England's failure to qualify for Euro 2008. McClaren was handed his cards on Thursday morning after a board meeting at Soho Square.
Croatia, the side that knocked England out, are 20/1 with Bodog to win Euro 2008.
Said Barwick: "It was a board decision, it was unanimous. I spoke to Steve this morning, I get on very well with him. I've had many grown-up conversations and had another one with him this morning and I can only wish him well."
He added: "But in the end, not qualifying for Euro 2008 comes up short. Qualification for a major tournament is probably a minimum requirement."
Barwick said the process of finding a new manager would be handled differently this time.
"The recruitment process for the new coach begins now and we will do everything to get the right man for the job," he said. "It will be done differently. We've got to learn lessons from the way we did it."
Barwick made it clear all candidates will be considered regardless of their nationality.
"I don't think nationality will be an issue," he said.
Asked about the financial loss, Barwick said: "To the FA, less than £5million."
Barwick said he didnt regret giving McClaren a four-year contract: "The contract is a private contract. I don't regret that now; I think he has tried very hard."
