Martin Jol says England have selected the right man in Fabio Capello to take charge of the national team.

Asked about the arrival of Capello to replace Steve McClaren, the Dutchman told BBC Radio Five Live: "It's a bit of a surprise.

"You have all the Italian staff - he has brought three Italians with him."

Even so, Jol has little doubt about the new coach's credentials - and concedes there was no credible homegrown candidate to manage England.

"Capello has won everything," he added.

"Last year, the top four (in the Barclays Premiership) were all managed by foreign people. You have to wonder why that is.

"I can't come up with a name of an English manager who has been in the top four for the last four or five years. On the other hand, if you don't get the chance you can't prove yourself."

As for his own future, Jol appears in no immediate hurry to return to club management.

"I needed a break and I still need it," said the man who was invited and agreed to leave Tottenham two months ago.

"If you go to a club over Christmas they are always bottom of the league - and that is not what I need."