Eyal Berkovic is stepping up his campaign to become the new Israel manager.

The former Israeli international, who had stints at Southampton, West Ham, Celtic, Manchester City, Blackburn and Portsmouth, was installed as the fans favourite after IFA chairman Avi Luzon announced that current boss Dror Kashtan would not have his contract renewed after Israel’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

Avram Grant was Luzon’s choice to replace Kashtan but the former Chelsea manager was this week installed as Director of Football at Portsmouth, leaving the door open for Berkovic.

Last month we reported that despite 43 per cent of Israeli fans wanting Berkovic to become the national team manager, Luzon was against the move. “It is not possible to appoint as coach somebody who was a great player but has never coached,” he said.

Berkovic responded: “The nation wants me. Luzon is not stupid. I will try to change his mind.”

Berkovic claims that he has spoken to Luzon who has softened his opposition.