Capello reveals open-door policy

The general opinion is that Capello has been so successful since replacing Steve McClaren because he maintains a rigid discipline which leaves the players in no doubt who is boss. But the Italian insists the hard-line image is not quite the reality.

During his time in charge, three players have knocked on his door and demanded to know why they have been left out of a particular game. And Capello has always answered. He said: "I respect the players, the players respect me."

He added: "This is very important. The days we stay together sometimes I speak to them individually.

"I have always said my door is open, players can come into my office.

"Three players have come to me and asked why they weren't playing. Every time I explained."

If it is not the same as the Brian Clough philosophy of talking to his players then, after a while, concluding the manager was right all along, then Capello brokers no discussion once his mind is made up about a subject.

One such issue is that surrounding the players' wives or girlfriends, or 'WAGS' as they have become known, who became such a sideshow at the last World Cup. That mistake will not be repeated.

"No, absolutely not," said Capello, when asked if there was likely to be a similar circus to Baden-Baden in Rustenburg, which is believed to be where the Italian wants to stay. "I hope we are at the World Cup for a very long time.

"The players will have one day with their family, with the girls and friends. It will be one day, after each game and that is enough. That's it. If they do not want to come for the day, then they should stay home."