'Best man for the job' claims Downing

Keith Downing believes Roy Hodgson has improved the quality and consistency of every player during his 15 months stay at West Brom.

Hodgson will bring down the curtain on his spell with the Baggies at Sunday's home Barclays Premier League clash with Champions League-chasing Arsenal before taking up his new role in charge of the England team. Albion number two Downing feels Hodgson is the ideal appointment for the national team on the evidence of his work in establishing the Midlands club in the top flight. Downing said: "Roy has brought structure, discipline, organisation, just a purpose to every day that he trains. You hear people talking about 'is it laborious, is it too drilled?' "But I'm sure any player at this football club will say the moment Roy walked in he has improved their performance individually and collectively as a unit. Every time we go out on the field there is a purpose to our play. There are no grey areas. People know exactly how they should play. He makes you a better player. Downing added: "In my opinion, Roy is the best man for England. I haven't worked with Harry Redknapp but I know what Roy will bring them. I'm sure England will go into each game with a structure and a game plan. Obviously football is down to players but he will give them the best chance to win those games."