England won't be missed at Euro 2008, says UEFA chief Michel Platini

Speaking on the eve of the tournament in Austria and Switzerland, Platini insisted England's absence from Euro 2008 is in no way detrimental to the competition.

Get in line: FIFA chief Sepp Blatter (left) and UEFA boss Michel Platini want English football to be more accountable

The former France midfielder said: 'What does England's absence mean to me? Nothing. They had only to qualify on the pitch. I do not wish to say that we miss England.

'That would mean, moreover, that the Croats are worthless. If England are not capable of finishing in the first two teams from a group of six, that is their problem. Their clubs have done well in the Champions League, but club football has nothing to do with the international game.'

The success of Premier League sides in the Champions League is also sticking in Platini's craw because of the £1.5billion combined debt of the two finalists.

'Look at the deficits of Chelsea and Manchester United. FIFA and UEFA are going to have to combat that because, today, it is the ones who cheat who win,' he added.

'The Champions League is run on credit now and it annoys me. We have to find the means, together with the European Club Association, to help clubs sort out their financial problems.'

Part of the problem: Chelsea striker Shevchenko

Not worthless: Croatia coach Bilic

Laying the blame for the debt culture within the English game firmly at the door of foreign owners, Platini added: 'I am very disturbed by foreigners buying up English clubs. I can't see why Americans come over to invest in these clubs unless it is to get a return.

'It is a perpetual chase for money, and now we've had this proposal of a 39th game to be played abroad. The aim of English football is no longer to win trophies - instead it is to make money to repay debts.'

One man who thinks England will be missed at Euro 2008 is former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, who said: 'England has massive support, always travels with thousands of fans and has players like Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney.

These are players that Euros and World Cups need.' Premier League clubs have postponed a final decision on the controversial international round after being presented w i t h options including the 39th game.

FIFA and UEFA have been told by the European Parliament that the 'six plus- five' proposal is illegal and will not be enforced.