A Manchester solicitor was responsible for bringing together the Football Association and the new England manager, it has emerged.


Chris Farnell, a partner at sports law firm IPS Law, met Fabio Capello's advisers last year to discuss possible vacancies in England, and was made aware of the Italian's interest in the national job should it become available. IPS Law has an associate office in Italy and Mr Farnell said he does a lot of work there. He spoke to Mr Capello's advisers again after Steve McClaren was sacked, and they confirmed his interest. 'I then spoke to the FA to see if they had an interest, which they confirmed they did.'



Mr Farnell set up the initial contacts between the two and organised their meeting, briefing the Capello camp in advance. He will be meeting Mr Capello shortly.



Should Mr Capello not be a success, fingers may point in Mr Farnell's direction. 'It'll all be my fault,' he said.



Neil Rose