The search for the new England manager was continuing today as the Football Association's board met in London.

The board members were being informed the shortlist has come down to three or four candidates - although they will not be told the names on the list.

The nominations panel have whittled down a list of hopefuls to the final few, whom they will interview before a final decision is made.

Reports in the north-east today suggested Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is in pole position to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson when he leaves the job after the World Cup, but it is understood no such decision has yet been reached.

The shortlist is also thought to include Martin O'Neill.

The nominations group - made up of chief executive Brian Barwick, international committee chairman Noel White, Premier League chairman Dave Richards and FA board member David Dein - have chosen the shortlist.

They will also interview all the candidates as a panel, perhaps with FA director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking alongside, and report to FA chairman Geoff Thompson on their preferred choice.

The board were today also being updated with the latest developments regarding Wembley - and discussions will centre on the action that can be taken to try to recover penalty payments from builders Multiplex.

The construction firm insist changes to the design mean they should not be liable for the £140,000-a-day charges imposed for over-running their deadline. The FA and Wembley claim any changes have been very minor, and legal action is set to ensue.