The Rooney Rule: What is it, where does it come from and why will England choose their next boss based on it?
No - it has nothing to with Wayne Rooney... it is a rule by which football bosses must interview an ethnic minority candidate for head coaching and senior football operation jobs
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THE FA has decided to adopt American football’s “Rooney rule” to all front line coaching roles... including the England manager’s job.
It means football bosses must interview an ethnic minority candidate for the post currently held by Gareth Southgate.
That's so long as there has been an application that meets minimum recruitment criteria. Chief executive Martin Glenn said the move showed the "FA is for all".
What is the Rooney Rule?
The Rooney Rule is an NFL policy that requires league teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation jobs.
It is sometimes cited as an example of affirmative action, though there is no quota or preference given to minorities in the hiring of candidates.
Eniola Aluko's complaint against Mark Sampson has led to the FA reviewing its interviewing process
Where did it originate?
The Rooney Rule originates from the United States and was implemented in 2003.
It was named after NFL diversity committee chairman Dan Rooney, who was also chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Why will England choose their next boss based on it?
The news follows the fierce criticism the FA received for its handling of complaints by Chelsea footballer Eniola Aluko.
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England striker Aluko claimed she had been the subject of alleged racially discriminatory comments by the former national team coach Mark Sampson.
Sampson was sacked in September following evidence of "inappropriate and unacceptable" behaviour with female players in a previous role.
The FA is now working with UK Sport to create clarity on codes of conduct for players and coaches.