Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has been linked with the England job
Aston Villa chairman Randy Lerner says he will not block Martin O'Neill from taking over as England coach if he is approached by the Football Association.
O'Neill is being touted as a possible successor to Steve McClaren after England's defeat in Russia left them struggling to qualify for Euro 2008.
And the American billionaire said: "I would not stand in his way.
"Obviously, they would be interested in Martin because of the way he has handled himself at Aston Villa."
One report suggests former Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho would be interested in succeeding McClaren if he lost his job.
And ex-Germany boss Jurgen Klinsmann is also regarded as a favoured FA choice in some quarters as speculation rages about McClaren's future, despite public backing from FA chief executive Brian Barwick.
Experienced Italian duo Fabio Capello and Marcello Lippi, a World Cup winner in 2006, are currently available while previous number one choice Luiz Felipe Scolari is still with Portugal.
Villa have made an impressive start to this season after a first campaign of transition under O'Neill.
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.
"Martin is integral to our plans for Villa. If he left, it would leave us needing to get to work pretty quickly I suppose - but it is something I have never speculated upon.
"It is not unthinkable but is something you do not want to spend too much time on because it's not something you can prepare for. It would have to be dealt with if and when it happened."
Former England boss Sir Bobby Robson led support for McClaren, who needs Israel to take points off Russia in their qualifier on 17 November to keep hopes of qualification alive.
Robson told the beleaguered England coach: "Stick with it, Steve. It's not all over. We're not out until we are out. You know what the football industry is like.
"Unfortunately we can't control our own destiny but sometimes other things happen. So don't wilt, don't read the papers and carry on with your life
"And hope Israel can do us a favour."
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