Venables, who led England to the semi-finals of the European Championships in 1996, believes that if the Spurs boss is not available, an Englishman should be appointed to succeed Fabio Capello.

"I think Harry is the candidate, he has done such a capable job; it's whether he wants it," Venables told reporters.

"What's good is the fact that everyone wants him to take the England job, he's the popular vote.

"It seems to have gone on too long for me, there's now a double take and no-one seems to really know what's going on apart from those that are in the seat."

The FA has said they will not appoint a manager until after the end of the English football season, which is less than a month before the start of Euro 2012.

"I don't see any benefit at all in coming in at the last moment," Venables said.

"He's got to know those players, not just from what he has seen, but how they talk and what they feel is important, really getting into the individuals."

Venables challenged an Englishman to take charge, but to do so without the lavish earnings of predecessor Capello, who reportedly collected six million pounds a year as the incumbent.

"If an English manager gets it this year I bet they don't get six million," Venables said.

"We bring in someone from out there and pay them some ridiculous price to do it. I bet an Englishman won't get that.

"You can go for anyone in the world for the Champions League and Premier League.

"But internationally, it's like what went on in wars – you can't trade generals you have to go for your own.

"Spain and Germany always go for their own. I would rather lose with our own people."