Hodgson's media mocking prompts another complaint

LONDON (AP) — The disparaging treatment of England coach Roy Hodgson by the country's biggest selling newspaper has come under fire for the second time since his appointment on Tuesday.

In a statement distributed by the Football Association, Bayern Munich complained on Friday about a back-page report in The Sun under the headline "Roy Who?" that suggested key figures at the German club had not heard of Hodgson.

Similar reports were carried by The Times of London and Daily Telegraph newspapers, suggesting Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes had questioned Hodgson's credentials to replace Fabio Capello, who quit as England coach in February.

Bayern said it was "surprised" by the English media reports.

"We have a high regard for Mr. Hodgson and, like our sporting federation the DFB, would like to congratulate him on his appointment as England manager," Bayern said. "As a coach and manager Mr. Hodgson is of course very well known in Germany and it should be made clear they have nothing but respect for Mr. Hodgson and his record.

"In no way did they or anyone at Bayern Munich question, or criticize his appointment."

On Wednesday, the FA complained to The Sun after the tabloid mocked Hodgson's manner of speaking on its front page, a day after his appointment.

The paper mocked his pronunciation by replacing all the letter "R''s in its headline with "W''s.

The 64-year-old Hodgson, who speaks five languages, was hired on a four-year contract that takes him through to the 2016 European Championship. Hodgson has previously managed three national teams and has coached in eight countries.

The first member of Hodgson's England coaching staff was appointed on Friday, with Ray Lewington leaving as Fulham assistant manager ahead of the European Championship.

"I know Ray well and enjoyed working with him at Craven Cottage," said Hodgson, a former Fulham manager. "He's a very good coach and the players will I'm sure enjoy working with him. We're currently finalizing the rest of the coaching staff but it's great to have Ray confirmed."