Capello steps aside as Russia coach

Fabio Capello has stepped down as coach of Russia after three years in charge with his side lying third in UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying Group G.

A statement from the Football Union of Russia (RFS) said that the Italian's contract, which had been due to expire at the end of the home 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign, has been terminated by mutual consent. "The Football Union of Russia sincerely thanks Capello for his work and wishes him luck in his future assignments," it reads. "Capello, for his part, thanks RFS for the help and backing he was given during his job. He is also grateful to the players he worked with and to the fans for their sincere support."

The former Real Madrid CF and England coach, 69, took charge of Russia in July 2012, and led them to the FIFA World Cup finals in 2014 – their first appearance at that level since 2002. However, their campaign ended in disappointment, with elimination at the group stage, and Russia have yet to sparkle in the European Qualifiers. After six games, they are third in Group G, four points adrift of their next visitors, Sweden, having lost 1-0 at home to leaders Austria in their last game.