Nancy humiliated, say friends

Nancy Dell'Olio is furious that she has been humiliated over the end of her relationship with England coach Sven Goran Eriksson.

Friends say she was convinced that Eriksson intended to marry her, and was even preparing for a wedding. But she is now determined to pick herself up and focus on her career - even if that includes a lucrative "kiss and tell" deal.

As further details emerged about the end of the couple's affair, an Italian friend of Ms Dell'Olio said: "Things hadn't been going too well for them so maybe this has come at the right time, although obviously Nancy is upset.

"She doesn't like the fact that she has been made to look a fool."

Eriksson, 56, and 45-year-old Ms Dell'Olio split earlier this week following rumours that the football manager had a fling with FA secretary Faria Alam. The 38-year-old PA has denied the affair.

Ms Dell'Olio will tonight put on a brave face when she attends a highprofile charity event hosted by Prince Charles for supporters of the British Red Cross at Highgrove.

An intense round of negotiations between the estranged couple is now expected over an adequate settlement for Ms Dell'Olio. Eriksson will be keen to maintain her silence and has already reportedly offered her ?1.5 million - in the shape of a ?1million home they shared outside Rome and ?500,000 cash - if she promises not to speak about their time together.