Michael Beale 'nailed on' for England job as former coach tips World Cup glory and reveals why playing career failed

Michael Beale’s former coach believes the Rangers boss cold lead England to World Cup glory one day - now he’s willing to put in the work.

Beale came through the ranks at Charlton when Terry Westley was heading up the Addicks youth academy. He recalls a talented left winger who would drift infield to get involved and had the ability to make it as a pro. However, Beale’s mentality was lacking and he was unwilling to make the necessary sacrifices to carve out a career in the game, which Record Sport columnist Chris Sutton recently reminded him he did’;t have.

But Westley sees that Beale is now dedicated to his profession as his talent shines through in the dugout. And he’s hinted that his former player could be destined for the very top of the game if he keeps it up - by leading his nation to the most prestigious prize in football.

“At Charlton, Michael was in a group of very talented boys — Scott Parker, Paul Konchesky, Jon Fortune and Kevin Lisbie were there,” Westley told the Scottish Sun.

“For Beale the game was too simple. He needed a rocket up his a*** time and again. He enjoyed all that went with being a young pro, and thought he could come back next day and be fine and be able to train and stuff.

“Speaking to Mick, I don’t think he’s got massive regrets. It’s more he knows what’s required now and he’s put all those things right. But he should have had a better playing career. I could give you a list of those ones though.

“When you were releasing players, you wouldn’t mark him down for not having enough ability. He was more down on the mentality not changing. It wasn’t getting better, the traits were getting worse as he got older. You hoped he would start to understand what he was missing at the next club, and that