New England coach Fabio Capello said his first priority was to learn the language. Photo / Reuters
LONDON - Fabio Capello described it as a "dream come true" today when he was introduced as England's new national soccer coach.
Answering questions through a translator at a packed news conference in a London hotel, the 61-year-old Italian said his first priority was to learn the language.
"In one month when I meet the players I want to be able to speak to them in English," Capello, who has never coached a national side before, said.
"I believe it is very important to be able to communicate with the players."
Capello's second task will be to turn around England's fortunes after their failure to qualify for next year's European Championship under former coach Steve McClaren.
"This is a great team capable of great results," Capello, who has won domestic titles with all four clubs he managed, said.
"I am very proud and honoured to be given the job of coaching England. I've wanted the job for a long time. It's a dream come true because it's a job everybody wants."
"I've accepted the task and believe I can do well."
Capello's first match in charge will be a friendly against Switzerland at Wembley in February and he has until next September before the qualifying campaign begins for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
"I'm lucky to have four matches without pressure when I will be able to experiment," he said.
"I think there is not enough faith in the England squad and what it can achieve."
Asked whether any there were any automatic choices in the side Capello, who dropped David Beckham while in charge of Real Madrid, said all players would have to prove themselves.
"They will be picked on attitude, behaviour and performance," he said.
Capello has been given a four-and-a-half year contract by the Football Association. His backroom staff will consist of assistants Franco Baldini and Italo Galbiati, goalkeeping coach Franco Tancredi and fitness assistant Massimo Neri.
He said he would also be adding an Englishman to his coaching set-up.
"It's very important to have somebody who knows the football from the country and knows the environment," he said.
- REUTERS
