Fabio Capello has assured the Football Association that his tax payments are in order. Reports have emerged in Italy that the new England manager's tax affairs are being analysed as part of a widespread investigation by the authorities.
The specific investigation relates to Capello's time as coach of AS Roma and Juventus. However, it appears the FA have known about the matter for some time and are confident nothing substantive will emerge.
"It is our understanding that the Italian tax authorities are currently following a procedure of looking into the finances of a number of high-profile individuals," said an FA spokesman.
"We have spoken to Fabio and his advisors about today's newspaper reports in Italy and they have explained the facts. They have also given us their assurances that Fabio Capello's tax payments are in order. The FA have no further comment to make on this subject."
The only worry for the FA is that the stigma of Capello's name being linked with such an inquiry will remain.
It is a story Soho Square chiefs could have done without, although it is unlikely to affect Capello's preparation for England's first match in charge, against Switzerland on February 6th.
