Curbishley, however, insists such media attention has made no difference to his desire to succeed Sven-Goran Eriksson as national team manager when the Swede steps aside after the World Cup in Germany this summer.

Curbishley told The Daily Express: “It has not put me off one bit. I want the England job.”

The Addicks boss claimed the meeting was a discussion, not an interview, but admitted he has begun to appreciate the enormity of the role and the attention it commands.

“I have seen it happen to others, sympathised and wondered how they have dealt with it. Now I know and it has taken me aback.”