Capello Throws Owen A Carrot!

Last updated : 13 November 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

But Capello, who has not shown that much interest in Owen since his England appointment, has reassured Owen that his international career is not over.

Capello has moved to dispel suggestions that he does not believe Owen has the quality to make an impact for England, hailing him as a "wonderful professional" and asserting that he can still play a vital role for the national team.

Capello: "I only ever call up the best players, or at least the players who are the most suited to the way I wish to play.

"Both Beckham, who I worked with for a year at Real Madrid, and Owen are wonderful professionals who could still play vital roles for England.

"I will never close the door to the national team on anyone, but you also have to remember that in modern football, only players who are in peak physical condition can make the most of their technical abilities."