by Richard Foster

Created on: January 20, 2009

Fabio Capello has proved within the space of one year how to get the best out of England. He quite rightly used the friendlies as an exploration of how adaptable the players were to different formations and tactics. I suspect he was underwhelmed by the lack of flexibility shown by the so-called "Golden Generation". It defies belief that two of our best players, Gerrard and Lampard, cannot play together effectively, but that must be the conclusion after countless attempts to pair the two have failed time after time.

What Capello brings is a forthright attitude that demands respect from the players. an important step in creating a strong and durable international team which neither McClaren nor Eriksson managed to achieve. When Capello insisted that all the players should sit together for their meals and not have their mobile phones glued to their ears it may have seemed a minor point. But this was a very important statement which sent a clear message that he was in charge and the players would have to conform to his set of rules with no exceptions. This is how respect is earned and brought to a swift end the chumminess of previous regimes.

As for the tactics on the pitch Capello has shown he can adapt and change the shape of the side, an attribute which sets him apart from the vast majority of managers who cannot break out of their stereotypical straitjackets. When England played Belarus in October 2008, the team were struggling and reached half time at 1-1 but definitely on the back foot. So the manager changed the system in a very positive manner by pushing Gerrard further forward to counter the threat of the Belarus midfield and the complexion of the game was transformed, allowing England to wrest control and win the game. One cannot imagine Steve McClaren even thinking about such a bold move.

Capello is undoubtedly enjoying a honeymoon period with 100% record in World Cup Qualifying Group and there will be sterner tests ahead but the key is that the team now look as though they have a purpose and a will to win that has been so sadly lacking over the last few decades. In the last friendly match in Germany England impressed not just because they beat one of Europe's top sides but they passed the ball and retained possession as befits a top international team. The fact that much of the team were not first choices, emphasises the excellence of the coaching as the lesser known members of the squad showed the benefits of being well taught.

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