ENGLAND boss Fabio Capello spoke of his emotion as he unveiled a bust at Wembley of Sir Alf Ramsey, the man he wants to emulate at the World Cup next year.
The sculpture, crafted by Philip Jackson, will be displayed in the tunnel area at the national stadium and will have a presence on matchdays, offering Capello and his men a reminder of Ramsey’s achievements 43 years ago.
World Cup winners, including Sir Geoff Hurst, Sir Bobby Charlton, Martin Peters and George Cohen were at Wembley to honour the late manager, who guided them to World Cup glory.
‘‘It is not easy for me to talk in front of world champions, it’s very emotional,’’ said Capello, who unveiled the bust alongside a replica of the Jules Rimet Trophy. ‘‘I saw the England final on TV and remember everything, and now I am England manager.
‘‘I remember my history in football and the first time I met Sir Bobby Charlton.
It’s magical for me and incredible to be here among these players.
‘‘I think all the fans hope that the new (World) Cup will be here (at Wembley).’’ Capello’s preparations for South Africa will continue when his side travel to Qatar to face Brazil in Doha, with a host of players struggling for fitness ahead of the friendly.
Ben Foster has not played recently for Manchester United, while Rio Ferdinand is injured for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side and Steven Gerrard has also been sidelined.
Right-back Glen Johnson has also been injured.
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