Capello named England boss

AFTER three weeks’ hard labour, the FA got their man last night as Fabio Capello was appointed the new England manager.

FA chief executive Brian Barwick and director of football development Trevor Brooking first considered Jose Mourinho before making their beeline for Capello, the 61-year-old former Juventus, AC Milan and Real Madrid coach.

The official unveiling will now take place on Monday ahead of his first day in the office on January 7.

“We were committed to appointing a world-class candidate. In Fabio Capello we have that man,” said Barwick.

“He is a winner and his record over the last two decades speaks for itself.”

Capello’s contract takes in not just the 2010 World Cup qualifiers but the campaign to reach Euro 2012 as well.

His first official game in charge will be against Switzerland at Wembley on February 6, when David Beckham is expected to win his 100th cap.

Capello’s choice of captain is eagerly awaited, as is the English coach that will be appointed to his team, in consultation with Brooking.

Former skipper Alan Shearer and current under-21 boss Stuart Pearce are among those being considered, although it is also possible the name of Watford’s highly-rated manager Aidy Boothroyd will crop up.

Former England manager Steve McClaren wished Fabio Capello well and said he is confident England’s future is bright. Said McClaren: “I’ve always said and still maintain we have an excellent group of players. I’m convinced they’ll do the country proud in due course.’’