England Manager

English Football In Dismay

Fabio Capello's decision to resign as England manager has come as a shock considering its timing. With only five months until England compete in the European Championships, the Italians decision has left the FA in dismay and with very little time to resolve their latest dilemma, who to appoint to replace the 65 year old. Although he was the most successful England football manager in the last 17 years, Fabio Capello's reign in charge was thwarted by controversy. Publishing the 'Capello Index', where he assessed the performance of his players and the ongoing saga regarding the overhyped captaincy armband are just two topics that prevented a relationship blossoming between the England nation and himself.

The majority of the public believe an English replacement for Capello is what our country needs to fulfil it's potential on the pitch. Favourite to be approached by the FA first is Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp. Having recently been cleared of tax irregularities, the 64 year old is a superb candidate. Boasting an impressive managerial record with the likes of Southampton, Portsmouth and most recently Spurs, Redknapp has expressed his desire to one day take the hardest job in football and has stated that if he were approached it would be"hard to turn down". Yet, with his Tottenham side enjoying their best ever season in well over a decade it would be hard for the Londoner to leave.

Described as one of the best man managers in the game, Redknapps ability to control an egotistical squad is what previous England managers have lacked. Too often have the England team been treated as celebrities rather than sportsmen and have allowed their personal lives to interfere with their perpetration at tournaments. Even some of the most difficult players have been tamed by a quiet word in the ear from Redknapp, with the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor and William Gallas benefitting from their managers caring approach.

The FA has revealed that they intend to resolve this issue as swiftly as possible, yet it is a decision that must not be rushed. For the national team to succeed it needs stability. Current World champions Spain did not become the best footballing country in the world over night. For Vicente Del Bosque's side it was a long process that required patience and dedication. If the FA hope for England not to endure another tournament toiled by embarrassment, they must act wisely and listen to the demands of the public when making their choice. For me that choice is in the dugout at White Heart Lane.