Colleagues support Capello decision

Over the weekend, Capello voiced his displeasure at the Football Association's decision to strip John Terry of the England captaincy and on Wednesday night the veteran coach quit his post just four months before Euro 2012.

"I am saddened," Conte told www.tuttosport.com

"I have great respect and admiration for Capello, a coach that has achieved important things. It's a grave loss for England."

Catania coach Vincenzo Montella, who worked with Capello at Roma, was surprised by his decision to resign but also told Italy's Sky Sport 24: "Considering the motivations behind this decision, you can understand his choice.

"Obviously, he has felt that his authority has been undermined and didn't feel the trust was there any more."

Terry awaits trial for a racially-aggravated public order offence in July and Capello had defended the player after the FA made its decision on the Chelsea defender. Terry denies the charge.

"It's a pity because he could have proved at the Euro that he could return to win with a national team," Montella said of Capello.

Former Italy international Christian Panucci, who worked under Capello at AC Milan, Real Madrid and Roma, said: "I think Capello's reason was linked to Terry's case because there are no other motivations behind this decision.

"Between the (England) federation and the coach there was no longer the chemistry of one time and Capello's decision represents one of loyalty."

Panucci believes the 65-year-old Capello will have no problems finding a new job.

"There are so many big teams that await a coach like him," Panucci said.

"He will wait for an important challenge, he needs that."