In typical pre-tournament style, England have had another ‘crisis’ with Fabio Capello resigning as manager in the wake of the John Terry fiasco. For many however including myself gives us a better chance at the Euros than before. Capello will always be a great manager but not a great international manager. England after all was his first national job after glittering spells with Madrid, Juve, Milan and Roma.
Capello looked out of his depth with England and his tactics and selection often came under question. None more so than in the 2010 World Cup. Capello’s tired tactics of 4-4-2 and reluctance to adapt to a 4-3-3 or 4-3-2-1 formation were the biggest reason for England’s failings.
This said, Capello still has the best win ratio of any England manager, so who could replace him? Redknapp is the bookies, fans and most of the players’ favourite to take the job. Our ‘arry would bring a no-nonsense side to England and could get the best out of England’s ‘stars’. Other names cropping up are Mourinho (My choice), O’Neil, Pardew and even Glenn Hoddle.
Here’s what some of the England players past and present had to say on the surprising news of Capello’s resignation.
Wayne Rooney: Gutted Capello has quit. Good guy and top coach. Got to be English to replace him. Harry Redknapp for me.
Rio Ferdinand: So Capello resigns….what now….?
Jack Wilshere: For a young player who was given the chance to play for my country at such a young age … he has shown great belief and trust in me so I can only thank him… massive influence on my career so far
Gary Lineker: I think new man should be English. Players have to be, so should boss. Harry Redknapp the man if he wants it. He can do both jobs until May.
Michael Owen: I don’t know anyone that doesn’t want Harry Redknapp. Surely we will stick to an Englishman as our next manager. And that should run right through the squad from players to tea lady.