IN choosing Fabio Capello as the new England manager, the Football Association re-opened the argument about foreign coaches. There has also been speculation he might make significant changes in terms of team selection. Well, I hope he does. There needs to be a wind of change.
Over the years I have admired players David Beckham and John Terry, but they must compete for places like everyone else and the manager must be given the opportunity to bring in those who have the ability and will to play for England. This includes his choice of backroom staff.
Capello must have complete control over coaching, the choice of players and not be dictated to by the media. He must listen to fans and respond to them as well as to football commentators, but the best response will be in seeing England win.
Success as a manager of a Premiership or top European club does not always mean that it can be replicated at a national level.
However, Capello does have undoubted abilities as a motivator with vision and passion - ingredients that breed success. In those teams he has managed he has achieved at a high level. Let's hope it's a recipe that brings bite and a flavour for winning here.
Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham.
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