 London: Fabio Capello has hit back at Wayne Rooney`s "lost in translation" jibe, slamming the striker`s performance in England`s Euro 2012 quarter-final defeat by Italy.
The Manchester United forward angered the Italian by claiming that players found it easier to adapt to Roy Hodgson`s methods because there were no longer any communication problems.
However, following Rooney`s poor showing against the Azzurri in Kiev, Capello has suggested that the 26-year-old can only take tactical instructions from Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
"After watching the last game, I think that Rooney only understands Scottish," the 66-year-old was quoted as saying by a leading daily.
Despite his country`s victory, the 66-year-old went on to voice concern over the Italians` lack of cutting-edge ahead of their semi-final clash with Germany.
"Italy played a great match against England, but the Azzurri have a problem: they need a great striker that can finish the huge amount of chances they are making," the Champions League winner lamented.
"However, I think it`s right that Prandelli will continue with [Mario] Balotelli and [Antonio] Cassano up front against the Germans."
But Capello is confident that the Azzurri`s forwards will eventually come good, especially if those behind them continue to create openings.
"[Andrea] Pirlo it`s the best midfielder in the world along with [Daniele] De Rossi," the former AC Milan coach enthused.
"But I hope that [Giorgio] Chiellini will come back into the defence against Germany; he`s so important for Italy."
Mark Doyle/Goal.com
First Published: Wednesday, June 27, 2012, 09:00
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