Downing backs Capello

Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing has given his backing to Italian coach Fabio Capello despite an indifferent start to life in charge of England. Downing believes Capello has the 'ruthless streak' to help make England successful.

Downing said: "Mr Capello is obviously a very intelligent man and an excellent manager. He speaks to the team as a whole rather than to certain individuals.

"What he has to say is very interesting. He's very good at what he does and there's a ruthless streak which is the edge you need to have at international level," said Downing.

"I think he could be just the sort of man we've been looking for, and that can only be good for England in the long term."