Capello Quits As Redknapp Walks Free

Fabio Capello's reign as England manager came to a dramatic end yesterday, as he offered his resignation to the FA and was accepted, four months to the day that Euro 2012 begins. Capello's relationship with his employers had deteriorated in the last week over their decision to strip John Terry of the captaincy in light of his July trial for alleged racial abuse towards Anton Ferdinand. Capello voiced his displeasure at the decision in the media, yet the issue appears to be only a catalyst for the subsequent parting of ways, with both parties rumoured to be seeking the Italian's termination.

Several hours earlier at Southwark Crown Court, Capello's heir apparent Harry Redknapp was cleared of tax evasion, dating back to his time in charge of Portsmouth. The result of the trial appears to have played some part in subsequent events at Soho Square and Redknapp finds himself the overwhelming clear choice of both players and fans to take over as coach of the national team.

Bookmakers had Redknapp as the odds-on favourite to succeed Capello throughout 2011, as he steered Tottenham into the Champions League, yet the court case had cast a major doubt over his managerial future, let alone prospects of leading England. He was as big as 3/1 for the job in February, but as news of the trial verdict broke this went quickly in to odds-on.

Capello's resignation came some eight hours later, and Redknapp's price has spiralled into a current best of 4/11. Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is a potential stumbling block, unlikely to be happy watching his manager walk away with the club third in the Premier League, but all parties have acknowledged the widespread preference for Redknapp and a part-time role until the summer may be sought. In the meantime, under 21s coach Stuart Pearce will take charge of the senior team for a friendly against the Netherlands on February 29, and Pearce is 6/1 second favourite to get the job.

Despite Capello's unbeaten record in qualifying for Euro 2012, bookmaker reaction has been favourable towards England's Euro 2012 chances, with several firms trimming a point off the 10/1 that was available. England are still fourth-favourites for the tournament, behind world and European champions Spain, Germany and the Netherlands.

Current next England manager betting: Harry Redknapp (4/11), Stuart Pearce (6), Guus Hiddink (12), Jose Mourinho (16), Roy Hodgson (20), bar (33).