Tactics
Sprang several surprises, notably the inclusion of Gareth Barry and Jermaine Jenas, which along with his decision to go with only one forward provided an early insight into his safety-first mentality. The Italian is more concerned with positional discipline than many of his predecessors and his players succeeded in keeping their shape within a 4-1-4-1 formation, without developing any real fluency. England were at their best after the introduction of Peter Crouch, which provided them with a focal point as well as liberating Wayne Rooney. 6
Style
The man is more stylish than his football team, but the fans will not be complaining if his functional football delivers results. From his shiny black boots to his dark overcoat, Capello exudes a serious, sober air at every turn, as David Beckham and Michael Owen could testify, with two former captains and national heroes facing crisis points in their international careers. For all his firmness, Capello has shown he is also flexible, coming up with an innovative team selection, even if it produced more questions than answers. 6
Communication
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Showed little inclination to talk to Stuart Pearce, who sat next to him in the dugout as if to prove that his title as an England coach is not purely notional, but appeared to have little problem getting his message across to his players. Sprang off the bench at signs of trouble to take up a position on the edge of the technical area, where he barked instructions, presumably in English. His half-time team-talk also appeared to make a difference as England emerged with greater urgency, even if they did concede an equaliser. 6
Substitutions
If a manager is to be judged by his substitutions, Capello is a genius because Shaun Wright-Phillips restored England’s lead five minutes after his introduction. Peter Crouch also made a considerable impact when he was brought on to lead the line and did enough to suggest that Capello’s previous preference for a big target man may be repeated in his new position. Michael Owen will not be hailing the manager’s tactical acumen, however, after being left to stew on the bench while Crouch and Ashley Young were sent on ahead of him. 7
Impact
Not a Messiah but clearly a man with no time for naughty boys, Capello’s overriding impact has been to put a black line through the recent history of the national team and start from scratch. This is English football’s year zero. Capello may have few options with which to revolutionise his squad but how he utilises them has already been radically different, with no pandering to superstars and fresh starts for rejects and fringe players such as Jenas, David James and David Bentley. England have begun the climb from the abyss. 7