FABIO CAPELLO HAS hit back at Wayne Rooney’s ‘lost in translation’ jibe, slamming his performance in England’s Euro 2012 loss to Italy.
The Manchester United striker 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 in their quarter-final defeat to the Azzurri in Kiev, Capello has suggested that the 26-year-old can only take tactical instructions from Red Devils boss Alex Ferguson.
“After watching the last game, I think that Rooney only understands Scottish,” the 66-year-old said.
Despite his country’s victory, Capello voiced his 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 Italy’s forwards will eventually come good, especially if those behind them continue to create openings.
“(Andrea) Pirlo is the best midfielder in the world along with (Daniele) De Rossi,” he said. ”But I hope that (Giorgio) Chiellini will come back into the defence against Germany; he’s so important for Italy.”
