Capello holds 'positive' talks on England future

31 May 2010 18:18

England manager Fabio Capello has spoken to Club England chairman Sir David Richards about his contract with the Football Association.

A source close to the discussions, who did not wish to be named, said they were "very positive" and both parties are hoping to bring a close to the matter by the time the team departs for South Africa.

It is understood that improving the terms of the contract is not on the agenda and discussions will only deal with removing the release clause inserted in Capello's contract when he was appointed England manager. The clause allows for either party to be released from the agreement after the World Cup.

Richards and Capello spoke on the telephone rather than face-to-face, which has also been taken as a positive indication.

Ahead of naming his final 23 man squad for the World Cup on Tuesday, Capello claims he is fully focuesed on the task in hand.

"I cannot wait for the World Cup to start," he said. "I am focused on everything that I have to do and prepare so I hope the result will be good.

"But the whole thing is very exciting. I know that a whole nation stands behind the team and me. A whole country, with all its fans.

"The pressure is higher in England because the last title was achieved a long time ago.

"But the supporters have confidence in the team because I have it too."

Source: PA