Fabio Capello has been named president of the League Managers' Association (LMA). The union announced today that the Italian, who took over from Steve McClaren as England manager this month, has accepted the position, as is customary for England managers.

The LMA had called for an Englishman to lead the national team, as it did before Sven-Goran Eriksson got the job in 2001.

Frank Clark, the LMA vice-chairman, described Capello's appointment before Christmas as a "big disappointment", frustrated that the FA had turned to another foreign coach.

"Since the LMA's inception in 1992, the role of LMA president has always been held by the current England manager," Howard Wilkinson, the LMA chairman, said.

"Fabio takes over from Steve McClaren and we at the LMA would like to thank Steve for his efforts, energy and support of the LMA in all that we do.

"We are delighted that Fabio has agreed to maintain the tradition of the England manager taking the role as LMA president and we look forward to working with him and helping him to develop a strong relationship with the game and the other managers in England."

Richard Bevan, the LMA chief executive, was similarly pleased to welcome the appointment. "Fabio Capello brings extensive experience of football at the highest level, from across Europe, to the role and the LMA executive team is looking forward to working with him," Bevan said. "On behalf of the LMA members we welcome Fabio to the role and wish him every success with England."

Capello said: "I am aware of the importance of the LMA and the work that it does and it is an honour to accept the invitation to be the association's president."

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