Roy Hodgson & England: He could succeed in job - Mark Lawrenson

Roy Hodgson could be a surprise success as England manager, according to BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson.

The Football Association has been given permission to speak to the West Brom manager, and Lawrenson believes England's underdog tag at Euro 2012 could suit Hodgson.

"People are saying they will struggle a bit out there [at Euro 2012], but that might suit Roy," said Lawrenson.

"He might make them difficult to beat and nick a couple of results."

Hodgson has a good track record with lesser-fancied teams in the Premier League, leading Fulham to the Uefa Cup final while steering West Brom into the top half of the division.

Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp was favourite to replace Fabio Capello, though, and Lawrenson admits he did not anticipate the FA turning to 64-year-old Hodgson instead.

"I am surprised," he said. "It was starting to look like Stuart Pearce would get the job, but I think he will still go to the Euros with Roy to help him.

"Is Roy Hodgson the right man? Only time will tell.

"I think Harry was the people's choice but, you never know, Roy might be the right man at this moment.

"He is under pressure but he suits the politics of the job with the FA, which is part and parcel of the job."