But the England skipper was last night keen to clear up the confusion, saying: "It came across as if I was counting out the English managers which I wouldn't do because I think those that were mentioned - Alan Curbishley, Stuart Pearce and Sam Allardyce - all have great experience.
"They are very good managers and any of them have a chance of becoming England manager.
"Experience is important but experience comes from the Premiership as well."
Meanwhile, Bolton Wanderers boss Sam Allardyce is ready to bring ex-Everton winger Idan Tal back to the Premiership.
Tal was expected at the Reebok to sort out a pre-contract over the weekend with a view to a free summer move from Maccabi Haifa.
If a deal goes through, Tal, 30, will team up with Israeli team-mate Tal Ben Haim at Bolton.