Jose Mourinho was surprisingly relieved of his job at Roma earlier this week.

The Portuguese had done well to restore Roma’s pride in Europe, after winning the European Conference League, and reaching the Europa League final last season.

Attention has swiftly turned to Mourinho’s potential next destination, with talks of a move to the Saudi Pro League mooted, or a return to the Premier League with Newcastle.

However, former Blue Frank Lebouef, insists Mourinho may harbour the burning ambition to manage at international level and coach his native Portugal.

Roberto Martinez is currently the man in charge of Portugal, and will guide them to this summer’s Euros, but Lebouef believes Mourinho will be ready to pounce on the job, should an opportunity arise.

He told ESPN FC: “I remember interviewing Mr Mourinho when he was at Madrid or Chelsea when he came over to Los Angeles.

“He admitted that the last thing he would love to do in his coaching career would be to get the Portuguese national team job. I think that’s going to be his goal.

“It’s tricky right now with Roberto but I really think he can be patient and see how it goes during the Euros and then maybe jump into the seat if he has the chance to.”