Fabio Capello Sticks with John Terry and Resigns as English Coach

England's coach, the Italian Fabio Capello, has resigned from his post today.

The FA confirmed that they accepted his resignation after a long meeting which hovered mainly around the decision to strip John Terry of national team captaincy. The Italian had publicly stated his support for Terry, who is preparing to undergo trial for making racist remarks, as well as criticising the FA for their decision.

The FA released a statement saying, "Fabio's resignation was accepted and he will leave the post of England manager with immediate effect," 

The former Real Madrid manager took up his English job in 2007 after winning a La Liga title with the Bernabeau giants.

Capello had his contract extended until the end of the European Championships in 2012, though he was severely criticised for England's dismal performances in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. With a win percentage of 66.67 percent, Capello's five years as England manager cannot be seen as a failure. Morevoer, he brought in the likes of Jack Wilshere and other youngsters to infuse youth into an aging English squad.

The FA had last week stripped Chelsea and England captain John Terry of his national captaincy. Terry is facing a trial in July 2012 after being accused of making racist comments against QPR player Anton Ferdinand. The move was severely criticised by many managers, fans and football pundits around the world. It was seen as a result of FA's conceding defeat to the media pressure. Capello had publicly stated his anger at not being consulted by the FA before making such a decision and also went ahead to say that his England skipper would always be John Terry.

Speculations were rife that the FA could penalise the Italian for his public outburst, but nothing looked likely. But today's development has been shocking for many. With Capello gone, the hunt for the next England manager has already started with Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp the favourite to land the job. Stuart Pearce is also being seen as a possible candidate, though nothing is sure presently.

The Italian has earlier stated that his England job would be the last in his career. But this became a rather sad ending to a hugely successful managerial career for the former AC Milan manager.