Capello upbeat despite defeat
27 Mar 2008 - 07:44:16
England manager Fabio Capello believes his side is on the right track even after their uninspiring display in Wednesday's friendly defeat to France.
France won 1-0 thanks to Franck Ribery's first-half penalty after David James had brought down Nicolas Anelka at the Stade de France to spoil David Beckham's 100th appearance in an England shirt.
England never really looked like equalising in a lack-lustre performance, but Capello said: "I saw some very good things against a top-level team. That showed me what our worth is.
"I'm very happy about David Beckham. He played like I know how he can play. I only substituted him because I wanted to see other players and I know Beckham as a player very well.
"I told the players I am happy we made progress compared to Switzerland, even though we won that game.
"I made the team play two different ways so I could see many players. My ideas are now a lot clearer.
"I am happy that the team showed they didn't want to lose the game. They played right to the end. This was the most positive thing considering the level of the opponent."