Capello bids to calm down 'crazy' Rooney

Fabio Capello has spoken to both Wayne Rooney and Ashley Cole to remind them about their responsibility as players in the England team.

The Italian is hoping a light-hearted reference to Rooney's red card at Fulham last weekend will lead to a greater sense of discipline from the England striker.

Capello dubbed Rooney "a crazy man" in training on Tuesday, questioning why the Manchester United forward felt it necessary to punch the corner flag following his dismissal at Craven Cottage.

The England coach expressed his view in front of the entire squad as a way of getting rid of any lingering tension before the real business of preparing for Saturday's friendly with Slovakia.

Capello is also thought to have had a private chat with Cole about the late-night altercation that saw him arrested a fortnight ago, although the England coach is happy at how the Chelsea defender quickly apologised to police for his actions.