Shearer is currently in Germany working for BBC TV

It is believed that Steve McClaren wants the former England and Newcastle striker to become his number two when he becomes boss of the national team.

Shearer told BBC Five Live Sport: "I am doing my coaching badges and in the future it could interest me.

"But I am quite happy with what I am doing at the moment. I've always said I'd like to have a bit of time out."

Shearer, 35, admitted McClaren had contacted him, although nothing had been discussed.

"I had the briefest of calls from Steve McClaren asking if he could speak to me after the World Cup," added Shearer.

"I said, yes, he could ring me. That's how it was left. I was staggered to wake up to the reports in the newspapers but it's flattering to even speak about it."

Alan has been marvellous for the sport and would adapt to anything Bobby Robson

McClaren will replace current England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson after the World Cup.

The Football Association have refused to comment directly on the reports linking Shearer to the role but Five Live Sport's Jonathan Legard believes McClaren would welcome Shearer's involvement.

"Any plans Steve McClaren may or may not have will not be discussed publicly until after the World Cup," said FA director of communications Adrian Bevington.

"Sven is the current England manager and our full focus of attention is with him at the moment."

Shearer is in the process of obtaining his Uefa A licence but has completed only the first of the three standards.

The former England captain retired as a player at the end of last season after a distinguished career with Southampton, Blackburn and Newcastle. He also scored 30 goals in 63 England internationals.

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After his retirement, Shearer - who is working as a BBC television pundit at the World Cup - said he wanted a year out of football and made it clear he was not interested in the then vacant Newcastle managerial position.

It is also understood that the role with England may effectively be part-time.

McClaren has previously been linked with a move for former England boss Terry Venables.

England skipper David Beckham said: "Alan was a great player to play with and a great person.

"He's very passionate and one of the best goalscorers I've ever played in the same team as but it's only rumours at the moment."

Former England boss Bobby Robson, who worked with Shearer when he was manager of Newcastle, said: "Alan is a strong personality, has leadership qualities and has been in the game a long time.