City to make Pearce wait
29 Jan 2007 - 07:56:28
Manchester City have confirmed that they have yet to sanction manager Stuart Pearce's appointment as the new coach of England's Under-21s side.
Pearce told reporters after City's 3-1 FA Cup win over Southampton that he wanted to take up the post vacated by Peter Taylor, but City say that no agreement has yet been reached.
A statement from the Citizens read: "The club has not given permission for our manager to be released for England duty.
"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 21s 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."
Pearce had earlier stated: "If I felt it would have been detrimental to Manchester City, I would not have even considered the position.
"It is a fantastic honour and I believe it will improve me as a manager and not only my standing, but that of the club.
"I can understand the club's concern about me taking my eye of the ball, but the amount of time involved will be minimal and I think it will also be to the benefit of Manchester City."
