No rift over selection process - FA

Between them, FA chief executive Barwick and director of football development Brooking have been tasked with the job of finding Steve McClaren's successor as England coach.

"There is no truth in any suggestion of a problem between Brian Barwick and Sir Trevor Brooking, or a conflict or difference of opinion of any sort in appointing the next England manager," said FA director of communications Adrian Bevington.

Reports have emerged of a major difference of opinion between the pair with Barwick said to want a 'world-class' continental manager, while Brooking is adamant he wants an Englishman in charge, probably in the form of West Ham boss Alan Curbishley.

Although he was interviewed last time around, Curbishley has never seemed likely to figure prominently in the FA's thoughts on this occasion and in any case, has already ruled himself out of contention.

"It (the dispute) is totally without foundation," Bevington added. "It is misleading to the public and grossly unfair on Brian and Sir Trevor, who are going about their work in a completely professional manner.

"This is not helpful at a time when we are doing all we can to ensure we get the right man and the best man for the England job, which is what the fans all want."

The FA are moving closer to appointing a new England boss, with former Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho still firmly at the centre of speculation over the vacancy.

It had been suggested Mourinho had come to the UK for an interview after the FA admitted to contacting his agent but other reports claim he is in Portugal - and does not have any plans to leave.

The FA will shortly conclude their wide-ranging consultation process.