Capello makes England World Cup promise

FABIO CAPELLO has pledged to take England to the next World Cup in South Africa.

The Italian inherited a squad which did not reach Euro 2008 under Steve McClaren, whose disastrous reign ended in a defeat in the Wembley rain against Croatia last November.

Given England only needed a draw to qualify and Croatia were already through, there appears little reason for confidence in a group which again pits the Three Lions against the Croats.

Not only that, the general standard of play at Euro 2008 was viewed by many as beyond the reach of England’s beleaguered players.

Capello watched events unfold in Austria and Switzerland at first hand, seeing Croatia on three separate occasions before returning home to keep up with the rest on TV. But his faith in his players is undiminished and he is adamant they will reach South Africa in two years’ time.

“We are a very good team,” he said.

“It is always the same. For us, the opponent is not important. The important thing is what we do.

“We will qualify for the World Cup. We will be in South Africa. I am sure of it.”

Indeed, it seems Capello was not left as starry-eyed by Euro 2008 as some of the pundits.

The former Real Madrid coach singled out winners Spain for special praise. But of Holland, Russia and the Germans, he said not a word.

And he was not left spellbound by new tactics or formations either.

“Only Spain played in a different style. Only the characteristics of their play was different,” said Capello.

“But I have a lot of confidence in my team and I think we will be okay.”