Powell denies Grimsby connection

Powell led England's women to the final of the 2009 European Championships

England women's coach Hope Powell has dismissed speculation linking her with the vacant manager's job at struggling League Two side Grimsby Town.

The 42-year-old was reported to have applied for the role after Mike Newell was sacked on Sunday.

But Powell said the story was "completely unfounded," adding she had "not been approached by or spoken to anyone from Grimsby FC".

Grimsby are currently languishing second from bottom in League Two.

Mariners chairman John Fenty said he had never held any talks with Powell, who has managed England's women's side since 1998.

"I have never spoken to the lady. She hasn't put an application in so we can hardly consider her," he told BBC Radio Humberside.

"If people want to apply we will consider them in due course. All applications will receive a due overhaul and we will go through them in detail.

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"Their better attributes will be identified, they will then be shortlisted, we will take them forward as a board, interview the shortlist and ultimately decide who is going to be the next manager."

Former Grimsby full-back John McDermott and ex-Hull striker Dean Windass have expressed their interest in the job.

No female has ever managed a professional men's side in Britain, but the League Managers' Association said it would support Powell if she applied for the role.

LMA chief executive Richard Bevan said: "Why shouldn't she (make the step into the men's game)? Hope has done a fantastic job with England, but I'm not sure the FA would want to let her go."

Powell has been in charge of the England team for 11 years and was the first woman to earn a Uefa Pro Licence - football's highest coaching award.

In September this year she led the side to the final of the women's European Championship where they lost to Germany.