Real Madrid Have Matched Barcelona - England's Fabio Capello

England coach Fabio Capello has told Italian sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport that he believes Barcelona and Real Madrid are now on equal footing.

"Not too long ago, one would say Barcelona is the best, but not anymore. Madrid is very strong," declared the Italian. "Some said they had their doubts about [Manuel] Pellegrini. But he is good and he knows what he is doing. Have you seen how they are playing?"

The twice Madrid coach also spoke of Barca coach Pep Guardiola, who brings "ideas, energy, and quality" to the Blaugrana side. "His Barcelona attacks with everything and defends with everything."

Capello also commented on the possibility of calling up David Beckham who has returned to Milan on loan until the end of the season in the hope of making the England squad for next summer's World Cup. He assured that if Beckham "plays well and is physically healthy" he will not hesitate to call him up.

"I do not keep age in mind, I think of quality, and Beckham has a lot. He is serious, a great professional, and he has a lot of passion for playing in the World Cup."

Cyrus C. Malek, Goal.com