Fergie Told To Keep Quiet

Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed that he has been asked not to discuss the England manager situation by the Premier League.

Fabio Capello's resignation last month has left the Football Association searching for a new coach to lead England into Euro 2012 and beyond.

Under 21 boss Stuart Pearce took caretaker charge for last week's friendly defeat by the Netherlands, but Harry Redknapp is the overwhelming favourite for the role on a permanent basis.

Manchester United manager Ferguson is among a number of top-flight bosses to have expressed the view that Redknapp is the best candidate for the job.

However, Ferguson has now revealed that the Premier League have demanded he stops talking about the England vacancy.

"The Premier League has written to me asking me not to talk about the England manager's job," said Ferguson after United were beaten 3-2 at home by Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League on Thursday night.

When asked why he had received the letter, he replied: "I've absolutely no idea. I'm not supposed to discuss it."

The FA has confirmed that a shortlist of candidates for the England role has been drawn up, but a decision is not expected to be made until towards the end of the season.