FORMER Colchester United advisor Paul Tisdale has been linked with the vacant England under-21 role.

The 48-year-old, who spent five weeks of the season at the U's in an advisory role, is in the running for the position, which was vacated when ex-U's boss Aidy Boothroyd left the post last month.

According to Sky Sports, Nicky Butt and Lee Carsley are also among those on the shortlist to become the next England under-21 head coach.

The FA is said to be speaking to a number of candidates for the role, with the likes of Chris Powell and Frank Lampard also linked.

The next game for England's U21 side will be against Kosovo, in September.

Tisdale has been linked with a number of positions since leaving Colchester, earlier this month.

Last week, he was installed by bookmakers as joint favourite to take over at League Two new boys Swindon Town, along with ex-Liverpool star Robbie Fowler.

He is still regarded as a front-runner for the position, along with former U's boss John McGreal.

Tisdale, who has taken charge of more than 700 games as a manager, is looking for a new challenge after his short-term role at the U's ended.

The former Exeter City, MK Dons and Bristol Rovers boss had also been linked with Leyton Orient, who have now appointed Kenny Jackett as their new boss.