MILAN - English teams have again dominated Italian sides
in the Champions League because their players are more physical and
their domestic matches flow better, according to England coach
Fabio Capello.
Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal eliminated Inter Milan,
Juventus and AS Roma respectively in the last 16 in midweek after
Premier League clubs had also outwitted Serie A's finest last
season.
"They (English teams) are used to a more physical game," Italian
Capello told Rai television in a programme due to be aired on
Saturday. "Our teams in this respect are lacking compared to the
English.
"There is another problem, there are so many interruptions in
the Italian league and very often tricks like throwing yourself to
the floor ... get rewarded.
"The referees in this sense should let the game flow more. This
is another problem compared to British football where the rhythm is
quicker and more fluid," added Capello.
The former AC Milan, Juventus and Roma coach, who has led
England to four World Cup qualifying wins out of four, said Italy's
failed bid to host Euro 2012 and their renewed effort for the
finals four years later may help Serie A off the field.
"The stadiums are very old and not very comfortable. There is
the chance to improve but there needs to be a real will to do it,"
said Capello.
"They (Italian football authorities) said there would be no more
banners and flares in stadiums and yet (they haven't banned
them)."