Fabio Capello should follow Gordon A German fan holds up a banner that reads 'Goodbye England'  following England's defeat in South Africa yesterdayBrown’s example of how to handle a shocking and humiliating defeat. Brown resigned with dignity as Labour Party leader following this year’s general election results and his heavy losses; it was a clear sign of no confidence from voters in the country.  Fabio Capello should do the same following England’s worst ever World Cup defeat. I imagine he will have resigned by the end of today, he will have been forced to quit  by the FA. Crucially, like Brown, he no longer has the confidence of supporters in this country either.

I only saw the second half of the match as I was out with friends for lunch, and it was impossible not to be impressed by the sheer energy and skill portrayed by a much stronger German team. Of course we need to use modern technology to help referees make correct decisions so a rightful goal is not disallowed; I can understand that the appalling decision to disallow England’s second goal must have demoralised our overpaid multi millionaire players – but it is the scale of the 4-1 defeat that is the main issue.  Is it time for performance related pay to be introduced to get some fire in their bellies – and their boots!

When I returned home, the England flag which my house full of men had hung up from a first floor window with much hope and pride, had been thrown out of the window and lay forlornly on the driveway in a crumpled heap- just like Capello’s standing and reputation as England’s football manager…