England's top clubs continue to dominate the Champions League competition while the England international team fails to impress under new manager Fabio Capello.
One week on from England's unimpressive international display against France in Paris, the Premier League's four representatives in the Champions League continue to impress with probably two and possibly three clubs in the semi-finals.
Champions League Success:
Following their two goal victory over Roma in Rome, Manchester United are all but assured of a semi-final place and either Liverpool or Arsenal will join them while Chelsea must overcome Fenerbahce of Turkey.
England's International Failure
However, the England team which failed to qualify for this summer's European Championships under manager Steve McLaren has failed to show any significant improvement in their performances under new manager Fabio Capello.
England's Talented Squad:
The England team with one of their most talented squads in years, fail to bring their exciting and talented performances to international football. Steven Gerrard, the mainstay of Liverpool, Frank Lampard who scores prolifically from midfield for Chelsea and Wayne Rooney an integral part of the Manchester United success story both domestically and in European competitions are found wanting in the international arena.
While motivated at club level, the players appear to lack passion and commitment for the England cause.
Where does the problem lie?
- too many foreign players in the Premier League - the Arsenal team regularly has no English players.
- club managers have greater influence over their players and how they play.
- there is little competition for the top players as few young players are coming through allowing David Beckham the opportunity to make his 100th appearance against France even though he is playing his football in America with LA Galaxy.
While the top Premier League teams go from strength to strength because of the financial rewards from participation in the Champions League, the England team are struggling to make an impression presenting Fabio Capello with a major task ahead of the World Cup qualifcation matches.
