Martin O'Neill 'would be great for England'

Aston Villa chairman Randy Lerner has said he will not stop Martin O'Neill from leaving the club to become England coach if he is approached.

The former Celtic and Leicester boss was in the reckoning for the England post last year and is likely to be tipped for the job again should Steve McClaren be axed.

He said: "I would not stand in his way. I don't know if I necessarily have any great insight on that subject. That would be between Martin and the FA.

"Obviously, they would be interested in Martin because of the way he has handled himself at Aston Villa."

McClaren's position is under scrutiny with England in danger of failing to qualify for Euro 2008.

Lerner added: "I have no doubt that he could be a highly successful national coach. I think what Martin has undoubtedly is very difficult to define - passion to lead and passion to compete. He is able to express his ideas very effectively and in a way which is very compelling."

O'Neill took charge at Villa Park in the summer of 2006 shortly before Lerner completed his takeover of the club.

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