Departing Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth reportedly pushed for Gareth Southgate to become the side's next manager before being overruled by the CEO.
Ashworth left his job at United on Sunday morning after just five months as all parties agreed he was not a good 'fit' for the club.
He oversaw a hectic five months at Old Trafford which saw the Red Devils part with beleagured boss Erik ten Hag after a defeat to West Ham in October proved one too many, leaving the 20-time champions languishing in 14th.