England Coach Fabio Capello Heavily Critical Of Calcio

England coach Fabio Capello has launched a stinging attack on Italian football, claiming it's a game run by violent ultras in which divers are praised rather than punished.

The Italian was giving a special seminar at Coverciano that was organised by the Italian FA. Speaking on the state of Calcio, Capello found it hard to draw parallels with the English game. A war of words between the coach and Italian football dignitaries has now ensued.

"It's the ultras who rule in Serie A. There is no courage to apply the laws against them," Capello said, as reported by Sky Sport Italia.

"In Italy the divers are praised and receive prizes - in England they are jeered."

The former Milan and Juventus coach then spoke of the national teams. He claimed that Italy has never appealed to him. He also mentioned his dilemma with Michael Owen, comparing it with the Antonio Cassano - Marcello Lippi debate.

"The Italian national team has never fascinated me like the English one," added the coach.

"My torment is Owen. With Lippi it's Cassano."

The Italian authorities were quick to hear of Capello's statements. Both Italian FA president Giancarlo Abete and Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) chief Gianni Petrucci fired back, appearing to regret inviting the coach to the talk.

"We are not hostage to the ultras, we work alongside the authorities regarding these things," Abete sniped.

Petrucci was stronger with his response, saying the coach's words mean nothing.

"I am not enthused with what Capello said. His speeches don't serve any purpose," he slammed.

Salvatore Landolina, Goal.com