England speculation cannot be gagged – Wenger

Sir Alex Ferguson revealed on Thursday he had effectively been gagged, having previously stated his belief that Harry Redknapp was the obvious choice.

It is an almost universal view across the game, which is probably why Tottenham, in the middle of their first significant dip in form this season, contacted the Premier League and asked for clubs to be reminded of the manager’s charter, which prevents public comment about rivals’ players or bosses.

This was issued on March 2 and has been seen by Ferguson and Blackburn counterpart Steve Kean amongst others.

Wenger was unaware of the reminder.

However, under the circumstances, he doesn’t see how the talking is going to stop until the Football Association confirm who Fabio Capello’s successor is going to be.

“I believe everybody is free to talk about the England job,” said Wenger.

“In fact I spoke many times about it so I have done my sins.

“It is inevitable that if you have nobody in place, the press will be worried and ask questions about it.”

The FA have already indicated it could be May before they arrive at a conclusion and have made it clear how mindful they are of not disrupting domestic campaigns, which are now reaching a critical period of the season.

There are plenty who feel the governing body are being far too tentative and should merely make up their minds and go for it.

As the club with most to lose, Tottenham have a different viewpoint as they try and secure a place in next season’s Champions League and reach this year’s FA Cup Final.

It is why they contacted the Premier League, although, as yet, they are yet to make a formal complaint about the matter.

On the field, and Spurs travel to Everton this tea-time looking to close the gap on the two Manchester clubs who do not play until tomorrow. They will be without winger Aaron Lennon (hamstring) but Louis Saha (knee) returns.

Chris Smalling (head) is Manchester United’s major fitness doubt ahead of their encounter with West Brom at Old Trafford, while Manchester City will be without captain Vincent Kompany (calf) for their trip to Swansea.

Djibril Cisse, Samba Diakite (both suspension) and Luke Young (hamstring) all return for QPR’s trip today to Bolton.

Wolves captain Roger Johnson could return to face Blackburn, who have Gael Givet and Jason Lowe back from suspension.