Capello Learn English

England’s top sports coaches hope to arrange a get-together in the New Year to welcome Fabio Capello to England.

England rugby union coach Brian Ashton and cricket coach Peter Moores are hoping to hold a ‘tri-sport’ meeting to welcome Capello to the country in his new role as England football coach.

The meeting is also designed to allow the three coaches to share ideas and techniques as the three men aim to lead their sides to success in their respective sports.

In the past, the England rugby union coaches have worked with their counterparts in rugby league and American football as they look to gain the edge in their own sport, picking up new techniques and training ideas.

But England rugby coach Brian Ashton, who guided his side to the World Cup final this year, claims that the meeting will have another benefit – to help Capello with his English.

As a player, Ashton had spells with both Roma and Milan and is a confident Italian speaker, despite his distinctive Lancashire accent.

“It would be nice to touch base with him when he comes over,” Ashton told BBC Radio Five Live. “We’re trying to put something in place for a tri-sport meeting.

“If it happens presumably I could act as translator for Fabio!”

Ashton added; “I suppose I’ve got one up on Capello in that I speak English as well as Italian but he’s got one up on me in that he probably earns more money than I do!”

However, with Capello setting himself a target of not needing an interpreter by January 7^th, Ashton’s bilingual skills may not be needed as the trio meet up in the New Year!

Ashton was recently given a long-term contract as England rugby coach whilst Peter Moores was installed as England’s cricket coach, replacing Duncan Fletcher who stepped down after England’s disappointing World Cup performance.