Lerner would not block O'Neill path

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O'Neill was in the reckoning for the post before McClaren was appointed last year and has again been tipped for the job should the former Middlesbrough boss be axed.

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

He added: "I think to some extent there is some welcome flattery in the whole thing. Obviously, they would be interested in Martin because of the way he has handled himself at Aston Villa.

"That speaks well so far of his first year and the first part of this season. As a newcomer, I am reluctant to make too much comment but it is clearly one of the great honours you can achieve in football to be coach of a national team.

"If that were to happen I suppose you would have to admire that kind of achievement and opportunity. I would not stand in his way. But I certainly hope he is here with Villa for the long term."