[Morrison]

Capello confirmed as England coach

The Football Association have confirmed Fabio Capello as the new England manager on a four-and-a-half-year deal until the summer of 2012.

The news was revealed 48 hours after Capello agreed in principle to lead the Three Lions, with the decision being ratified by the FA Board on Thursday.

Final negotiations between the FA and Capello's advisors have now been completed and the former Juventus, AC Milan and Real Madrid coach will begin work on January 7.

"I am delighted that Fabio Capello has agreed to become England manager," said FA chief executive Brian Barwick.

"When we set out to recruit the new manager, we said we were committed to appointing a world-class candidate. In Fabio Capello we have that man.

"Fabio is a winner. His record over the last two decades speaks for itself.

"At every club he has managed Fabio has won the league title and Sir Trevor Brooking and I were left in no doubt of his passion and commitment to bring that success to the England team."