ALEX Browne's appointment as Shaun Brooks' new right-hand man could prove to be a clever move by the Dorchester Town manager.

The fans will no doubt be happy with the news that a club legend has joined the coaching staff, while the Magpies will gain the expertise of a determined character who tells it like it is.

The reasons behind Paul Compton's departure as assistant-manager are highly unfortunate and totally understandable but the fact that he lived so far away from the county town always appeared to be somewhat of a hindrance.

Browne is much closer to home and although he will continue to work with the club on a part-time basis, he is sure to have more regular contact with the players than his predecessor.

The 35-year-old won't take any nonsense, and with his invaluable experience of the BGB Southern Premier Division and non-League football in general, he has the makings of an excellent assistant.

The appointment has certainly lifted the mood after a dismal season that ended relegation.

o o o WATCHING England was once again a dull experience but it's going to take time for things to fall into place.

Boss Fabio Capello has different ideas and is determined to stamp his authority on proceedings, which could see a few players take longer to adjust than under previous managers.

Steve McClaren already knew the England set-up having been assistant to Sven Goran-Eriksson, but the former Middlesbrough boss appeared to lack any form of leadership or guidance.

The Italian's priority seems to be one of maintaining possession - vital at international level. The Three Lions were afforded plenty of it on Wednesday night, only by virtue of how poor the USA were.

Capello is expected to give fringe players a run-out against Trinidad and Tobago tomorrow so the next test for England's strongest XI won't come until August 20 when they take on the Czech Republic in a friendly.

England must step up a gear in that match in order to go into the qualifying campaign for the 2010 World Cup with confidence, otherwise, barring the formality of the tie with Andorra, a lack of self-belief could see them lose a third successive game against Croatia when the two sides meet on September 10.