Downing 'blasts' Capello

[Concrete John]

The England stuff is them trying to create a story that simply isn't there.  And I don't think Downing did enough to be in contention either.  The only bit that should be of interest to us is:-

From the Sun:

Meanwhile, Downing reckons selling James Milner to Manchester City could be a great piece of business for Aston Villa.

City are poised to make an improved offer of around £25million for England midfielder Milner, 24, after seeing a £20m bid rejected.

And Downing said: "The money they're talking about is a substantial amount for one player.

"If we can replace him with a player of his ability then it's good business."

The bit in bold are his comments, so ignoring the Sun's spin on it I think he's trotting out the party line in order to prepare us for Milner's departure.  I haven't got a problem with that, especially as I agree with what he's saying!

[Concrete John]

There's a certain manager that might not take too kindly to his Milner comments as well - remember what happened to Berger?

Berger said Barry leaving was good for the player.  Downign is saying that Milner leaving might be good for the club.  Quite different things, IMO.

[stevenjos]

Sorry Downing, your not good enough for England, especially the way you run away from challenges. Now stop moaning and try and learn to be a winger again.

[Risso]

There's a certain manager that might not take too kindly to his Milner comments as well - remember what happened to Berger?

Berger said Barry leaving was good for the player.  Downign is saying that Milner leaving might be good for the club.  Quite different things, IMO.

I agree John.  I'd say it's now pretty well certain that Milner will be on his way.

[Concrete John]

Sorry Downing, your not good enough for England, especially the way you run away from challenges. Now stop moaning and try and learn to be a winger again.

Although I agree, quite a few that DID go also fall into that category.

[Merv]

The Guardian's take on Downing's 'blast' comes across rather more reasonably....

Having missed out on the World Cup, Downing admitted he is keen for the new season to get under way. He is particularly eager to force his way back into the England squad after missing out on the World Cup. The winger had hoped at least to make it into Fabio Capello's provisional 30-man squad for the finals in South Africa and remains upset that the England manager gave him no explanation for his omission.

"In the 30 I think there were a few surprises, not only out of the squad but in the squad as well. The only disappointing thing is I didn't get told why I was not in the squad. I am sure a lot of people are in the same situation as me. There's no point moaning, the only thing I can do is make sure I have a good season with Villa and get in the qualifying squads. The manager has said there will be changes, so we'll wait and see when he names that squad in August."

[Des Little]

Sorry Downing, your not good enough for England, especially the way you run away from challenges. Now stop moaning and try and learn to be a winger again.

Although I agree, quite a few that DID go also fall into that category.

I'm far from convinced that Downing is good enough for us, let alone for England.  Massive season ahead for him.

[stevenjos]

Sorry Downing, your not good enough for England, especially the way you run away from challenges. Now stop moaning and try and learn to be a winger again.

Although I agree, quite a few that DID go also fall into that category.

Oh definately, but thats why capello is martin mk2!

[darren woolley]

I think if he knuckle's down and produce's quality like we know he can then he will get back in the england team now he has had pre season training.  I would like milner to stay but i can't see it happening.

[pauliewalnuts]

Hardly a "blast".

Slightly concerned about the Milner comments, mind, just the fact he's commenting on it at all as much as what he actually says

[junxs]

From the Sun:
"That was a great confidence boost. I then thought we'd had a good end to the season, the team was playing well."

The team may have been playing well Stewart, but you certainly weren't.

[pablopicasso_10]

the sun peddling shite to brain dead moronic sheep again, i see...

[eastie]

Downing should not be making comments about possible players leaving- I don't think mon will be happy to read his comments- far easier to just say no comment!

[TimTheVillain]

Downing should not be making comments about possible players leaving- I don't think mon will be happy to read his comments- far easier to just say no comment!

Agree.

It's not a 'blast' but he shouldn't be saying things like this.

Get on with yer own game Downing.

[PeterWithe]

This 'attack' on Capello is about as strong as one of his tackles.