Following his appointment as England manager, Fabio Capello said: "I am very proud and honoured to be the England manager. It is one of the biggest jobs in world football.

"Brian Barwick and The FA have given me a great opportunity. I am very excited about the challenge, and I’m already planning for the first game in February against Switzerland.

"Every player has a new start with me - they all have the chance to impress.

"Playing for your country is the biggest honour for a football player. I know, because I had that honour myself. I expect my players to give 100% and be professional at all times."

Capello also revealed his desire and determination to bring success to the Three Lions, and is in no way daunted by the expectations and the challenge that is in front of him.

He said: "I will do everything I can to make the England team successful, and I expect the players and everyone involved with the team to do the same.

"I know there is a lot of expectation with the England team, but I am prepared for that. There was big expectancy at the clubs I’ve managed and I enjoy that challenge."

Following the successful conclusion of negotiations on Friday, Capello will begin right away, explaining: "I will start my work immediately. I will move to England at the beginning of January. My English is not yet at the level that I would like and I am starting lessons straight away.

"England is one of the great football countries and it was very disappointing that they did not qualify for the European Championships.

"We now have to work very hard to be sure we qualify for the World Cup in South Africa.

"While I have brought some Italian coaches to work with me in England, I will also be working with Sir Trevor Brooking to discuss English coaches. It is very important to me that we have English coaches working with the team.

"I want a winning England team. I want the players to play for England the way they do for their clubs.

"I want them to have confidence on the pitch. They need to have belief in themselves and not be afraid of big games.

"Football is all about winning and that is what the England team has to do."