Hoddle Rages At Sven Sting

No one knows better than Glenn Hoddle what its like to have the media turn on you.

Hoddle was hounded out of the England job by the press following France 98, and is giving Sven Goran Eriksson his full support.

'It's happened to me, they turned me over big time. I didn't say those things I said. I've been quoted stuff which, quite blatantly, I didn't say.' he told Skysports

Hoddle's predecessor Terry Venables also suffered trial by media and believes that through both of their experiences the FA learned some harsh lessons.

'Terry Venables was the same. Look at Terry and my football record. I went out on two wins and a draw. No-one can complain about them. People just weren't strong enough at the time.'

'If The FA have learnt something from Terry's experience and my experience by sticking by their man, then rightly so in this circumstance,' he added.

Hoddle doesnt believe that Eriksson should be blamed for what was said during the sting operation mounted by The News Of The World. But he does point the finger at media sources seemingly intent on derailing the build up to England's World Cup campaign.

'He's been totally, 110 percent set up. I don't think the public and fans really want to see that happening five months before we play in the World Cup.

'It's such a shame, it really is. They're bringing the game into disrepute themselves, they really are dragging it through the gutter. It's the game I love and it saddens me big time.'

I don't think anyone could get away with that with the Prime Minister. It's a harder job than the Prime Minister really.

'They wouldn't be allowed to do it with him yet they're doing it with the England coach. There's not a lot of difference between the two jobs in many ways.

'I think people have to look at that. Would they do it with the Prime Minister? Would they get away with it? Why should they get away with it with the England coach?'

How many more times will eth press try to oust Eriksson for non football reasons? They tried before Japan 02, and they're at it again.

Is it because he steadfastly refuses to discuss his private affairs? Is it because he wont throw them titbits on slow news days?

Whatever the reason, its insideous journalism at its worst. Entrapment doesnt stand up in a court of law, but these men don't need to pursue legal avenues to get their man.

They frequently publish innacurate and downright untrue stories, then issue apologies buried in the margins knowing no one will remember the apology, but they will the accusations.

They comfort themselves with the extra sales they generate at the expense of a reputation they usually leave in tatters.

Had this operation been fully succesful, England would now be Managerless with Germany 06 only a few months away.

As it is they failed. But its hardly the best preparation to capitalise on Englands best chance for years to win the greatest trophy on earth.

Its a wonder they can sleep at night.