Harry Redknapp today suggested it would be possible to combine the role of Premier League manager and England boss until after Euro 2012 but reiterated how difficult it would be for him to leave Tottenham.
The 64-year-old admits he is the front-runner to replace Fabio Capello as speculation persists that the Football Association will make an approach after the four-man selection committee have drawn up a shortlist.
Last week, Redknapp insisted it would be difficult to focus on club and country equally were he offered a dual role but today claimed it could be an option for this summer's finals in Poland and Ukraine.
"Part-time? In the short term I think it's possible for the European Championships," Redknapp told Abu Dhabi Sports. "But I think in the long term it's not possible to manage a club and a national team.
"It's difficult enough to manage in the Premier League without having to worry about England. You want to be watching England players play, you want to be watching the opposition.
"I think whoever they give the job to could only do the one job. Maybe for the Euros, it's not such a problem. But once the tournament has finished and the new season starts in England, a manager has to be either a Premier League manager - if it's someone who manages in the Premier League - or England boss. To do the two jobs, it would be impossible."
Standard Sport revealed last Friday that Spurs will block any attempt from the FA to appoint Redknapp before the end of the season and he is torn over any decision to leave White Hart Lane.
"I'd be a liar if I said I wasn't the popular choice," he said. "But I have a good job and I work with good people and I have a good team. Just to walk away now, when we're in such a good position, it wouldn't be fair. I have to really keep focusing on Tottenham, where it is an important time."
Spurs youngsters travel to Charlton tonight bidding to join Chelsea and Fulham in the sixth round of the FA Youth Cup.
