• International football

Capello deserves more respect - Wilshere

ESPN staff
March 30, 2011
England were denied victory by Asamoah Gyan's late goal © PA Photos
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Jack Wilshere has launched a passionate defence of England manager Fabio Capello, believing the media and fans "need to get off his back".

Wilshere started for the Three Lions for the second time in four days as England drew with Ghana at Wembley on Tuesday.

After being criticised last week for his handling of a captaincy switch from Rio Ferdinand to John Terry, Capello was the subject of headlines once again as he named a weakened team for the friendly against the Black Stars.

However, as England once again appear on course to qualify with ease for a major championship, the Arsenal midfielder believes the Italian deserves more credit - despite the disappointing performance at last summer's World Cup.

"Before the World Cup he couldn't do wrong, and since the World Cup everyone has been getting onto his back," Wilshere said. "I think we need to give him a break. He is a great manager.

"He has proved it at clubs before and he has got a great record for England as well.

"He is one of the best managers I've ever worked with. People need to get off his back a little bit."

Gareth Barry, who captained the side at Wembley, echoed Wilshere's sentiments. The Manchester City midfielder believes Capello is experienced enough to realise such criticism comes with the territory.

"You can read things that are pretty negative but the important thing is the manager is getting his points across on the pitch," Barry said. "Any little negative seems to be getting blown up.

"But I'm sure the manager knows that comes as part of being England manager."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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