Sports Letter: Screened candidate

Sir: If we are to learn from the mistake of appointing Graham Taylor, the next England manager must be:

1 Perceived throughout the country as an authority on football.

2 Totally unflappable in a a crisis.

3 A skilled media performer who inspires confidence.

4 A charismatic individual with a hint of flair.

5 Untainted by a long period of club management.

There's only one man - Desmond Lynam (below, left).

Yours faithfully,

DAVID O'BRIEN

Chatham, Kent

(Photograph omitted)