Soccer: Pearce to assist England coach

Stuart Pearce has been named as one of England coach Fabio Capello's assistants. Pearce will stay in charge of the England under-21 team, while also taking on his new national role alongside Capello's Italian assistants, Franco Baldini and Italo Galbiati.

"It is crucial that both of us have a close working partnership to get the best for both the England team and under-21s," Capello said. "As well as being involved in all of the planning ahead of games, he will sit next to me on the bench during the matches and have a key position around the team."

The Football Association was adamant that an Englishman be included as part of the national coach's staff.