While England football coach Fabio Capello hopes his players will remain fit through the rest of the season before the world cup in South Africa, the Italian has his own concerns as he undergoes knee surgery.

The former AC Milan and Real Madrid coach is set to travel to Italy this week for a knee replacement operation, the Football Association (FA) has confirmed.

Director of communications at the FA Adrian Bevington explained: "Fabio has suffered with problems to his knee for a long time due to injuries sustained during his playing career and has been left with no option but to have replacement surgery."

Mr Bevington said the coach expects to be up and about by March 3rd.

Those who suffer knee problems in later life after being very active in their younger days may find that ultrasound treatment helps damaged joints to heal.

During his playing career, Capello played for SPAL 1907, Roma, Juventus and AC Milan, as well as the Italian national team.