England opt for Capello?

Fabio Capello has today emerged as the clear favourite to be the next England coach.

Jose Mourinho’s decision to rule himself out of contention has left the way clear for the 61-year-old and it is being suggested that the English Football Association are ready to discuss contract terms with him.

According to BBC Sport, Capello has already spoken to FA officials and is edging closer to completing the deal.

"My understanding, in terms of Capello, is that there has been contact and there will be more," BBC Radio Five Live football correspondent Jonathan Legard insisted.

"I would say that Capello looks odds-on to be the next coach of England as he has a trophy-laden CV and a world-class label that FA chief executive Brian Barwick has been looking for."

The former AC Milan, Roma, Juventus and Real Madrid coach has already said he is keen to succeed Steve McClaren. Newspaper reports this morning claimed Italy Under-21's assistant and fellow Italian Gianfranco Zola could be brought in as part of Capello's backroom staff.

Italian state broadcaster RAI are reportedly lining up a replacement for Capello, who was working as a pundit for their football coverage since leaving Real Madrid last season.

Italy's World Cup-winning coach Marcello Lippi is also in the frame, but he is said to be unwilling to leave his homeland and reluctant to compete against Capello.

Source: C4 Football Italia / BBC Sport