Pearce's England role in doubt

Talks will continue over the next week in an attempt to end the impasse over Stuart Pearce's appointment as England Under-21 coach.

Despite Pearce claiming yesterday that he had accepted the opportunity to succeed Peter Taylor and lead England into next summer's European Championships, it appears a deal is far from done.

Manchester City remain opposed to Pearce getting involved in two friendlies, against Spain on February 6th and as-yet unnamed opponents in March, believing the extra workload would be detrimental to his work at club level.

For their part, the FA cannot see the point in appointing a coach for a major tournament who does not then have an input into the build-up games.

All parties believe a solution will eventually be found, although the timing is not ideal with the FA eager to make an announcement as soon as possible given the need to select a squad to face Spain, while City officials are trying to concentrate their energies on bringing in new faces before the transfer window shuts on Wednesday.

"The FA will continue speaking with Manchester City over the next few days with regard to reaching an appropriate agreement with Stuart Pearce to manage England's Under-21 team," said a statement on the FA website.

Pearce insists he can fit in the extra work, believing the job can only enhance his ability as a coach and therefore bring added benefit to his club.

However, the many City fans take an alternative view and the Blues board are acutely aware Pearce will leave himself, and them, open to huge criticism should results turn against the club.

It is for that reason club officials have refused to be railroaded into letting Pearce have his way, following the manager's surprise announcement after the 3-1 FA Cup win over Southampton.

"The club has not given permission for our manager to be released for England duty," said a statement on City's official website.

"We recognise Stuart's patriotism and enthusiasm to assist the Football Association, and Manchester City in turn understands the FA's desire to have him contributing to the Under-21's European Championship campaign.

"We will remain in dialogue with the FA and hope to reach a solution suitable to this club in the next few days."