Football Association launch technical director search

The Football Association have announced plans to appoint a technical director for the first time in 10 years.

The FA have been without a technical director since Howard Wilkinson vacated the role to manage Sunderland in 2002.

It is believed that the FA are keen for an experienced manager to take the job.

"The role of technical director will be crucial as we continue to strive towards improving the technical ability and knowledge of our players and coaches," said the FA's general secretary Alex Horne.

The new technical director will report to Sir Trevor Brooking, who is currently the FA's director of football development.