Pearce became the second leading candidate to discount himself from running for the job at Upton Park today.

His announcement followed Portsmouth boss Redknapp who declared he would stay on the south coast.

The 46-year-old ex-Manchester City manager maintains his current focus is on duties within the England Under-21s.

He said: “I manage this team. I am very proud to do so and will not be stepping down from this job, because I love the job I do.“

Pearce also rejected the notion that an overseas coach was more likely to be appointed at Upton Park.

He added: “There are a lot fantastic English managers about.

"What happens nowadays is we knock what we have got under our own noses, and that can be absolutely fatal.”

Redknapp, who had long spells as a player and manager at Upton Park, said he values the freedom he enjoys at Fratton Park.

He told the press: “Don’t get me wrong, West Ham is a fantastic club, with fantastic fans and - having gone there aged 15 - it has a special place in my heart.

“But I love it at Portsmouth and I have one big advantage over a lot of Premier League bosses these days - I’ve got an owner who lets the manager manage.”

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