IT would appear that your columnist Tony Kelly (The Press, December 15) is another voice in the chorus opposing the appointment of Fabio Capello as England manager.

Unfortunately, desirable thought it may be to have an English born boss', it flies in the face of reality.

The last Englishman to achieve even near success at World Cup level was Sir Bobby Robson and he did so not only on the back of fashioning small town club Ipswich to consistently high placings in the top division, but also to UEFA cup success.

Against such a backdrop the likes of Steve Coppell, Sam Allardyce, Harry Redknapp and Alan Curbishley have no more pedigree than had Steve McClaren, and arguably less.

As for Tony's suggestions for Martin O'Neill or Mark Hughes they are no more English' than is Capello - and far less successful.

There is also concern that the Italian is not friendly to the media and will be over-tough with stars'.

Good. He wants to be. So was that other ex-Ipswich manager who went to England namely Sir Alf Ramsey.

He didn't tolerate prima donnas' either. Who says Capello needs to learn our language?

A way out does exist though. Fabio can retain that apparent necessity of an ex-Ipswich manager to guarantee national success by appointing Joe Royle to his backroom staff.

Trouble is he's an Evertonian, Tony.

Mr C Corbett, Bull Lane, Lawrence Street, York.