Fabio Capello has claimed England's problems at international level are more psychological than technical.

The former Real Madrid, Milan and Juventus coach is the favourite to replace Steve McClaren, who was sacked after England's 3-2 defeat to Croatia at Wembley denied them a place at Euro 2008.

"As coaches we all ask ourselves how England, with the players they have, failed to qualify for Euro 2008," Capello told Marca.

"The English national team, like the Spanish one, win little despite having leagues that make more money than the others.

"I have seen some of England's games. Against Russia in Moscow they defended on the edge of their area for 90 minutes despite holding a 1-0 lead." England lost 2-1 after late goals from Russia's Roman Pavlyuchenko.

"Against Croatia, they all pushed up and lost 3-2 when a draw would have qualified them," Capello continued.

"The difference in attitude between these games is too great. How can players with the quality of David Beckham and Michael Owen perform so differently when playing for their country? It is clear the shirt weighs heavy even for these winners.

"In these situations the coach's role is fundamental and he needs to be more psychologist than tactician or technician. The obvious explanation is that there is a mental block. Otherwise, how else can you explain their elimination?"

His explanation is at odds with that posited by many pundits, who claim English players are over-rated.

Capello's theory would indicate he believes the country is capable of winning the World Cup. The Italian has registered his interest in taking on the England job.

Reuters