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Sol Campbell in talks over managerial role, keen on England job in future

Former England defender Sol Campbell has told The Times he is in "active negotiations" over a managerial role and said he is eager to lead the national team in the future.

Campbell, who spent the majority of his career with Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, suggested he was considering a job in Europe.

"I am in active negotiations and we will see how things pan out over the next two or three weeks," he told the newspaper. "I am waiting for someone to come back to me. I will have to see the proposal.

"I am probably recognised more in Europe than my own country. Players and managers understand and appreciate me more. You can't be king in your own country. Sometimes you have to go away to come back."

Campbell had told The Guardian in 2013 he was considering coaching abroad because of "archaic" prejudice and his "broken" relationship with the Football Association, and he later accused the governing body of failing to hand him the England captaincy because he was black. 

Last year, the 42-year-old, who made an unsuccessful bid to become Mayor of London, told ESPN FC: "I think you will see a non-white Prime Minister in Downing Street before you see a non-white England football manager."

However, he said he is hopeful he will be given the chance to lead England if he proves himself as a manager.

"I have the skill set for that now," he said. "International football is a big cup game. I have always had confidence in my own ability. I might surprise people, I might upset a few people, but I will always push the boundaries."

He added: "I have a five- or six-year plan and eventually I will get a top club. Everyone has their own destiny. Mine is to lead a top team in Europe and then -- who knows? -- England. I am ready for it, for all the challenges. I was like that as a player: head down, committed."

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