Southgate questions Sven

"I am thinking particularly of young English players, who, if they do not settle for more disciplined and professional lifestyles, are going to lose career opportunities to foreign players.

"As a kid, I thought the top of the game would be packed with unbelievable quality - now I work with international players who have poor technique and a lack of focus. I love football but do not like the professional version."

Southgate's verdict on Eriksson is hardly more enthusiastic. The 33-yearold acknowledges the impressive results the Swede has achieved, but questions his ability to take England on.

He said: "Sven has given us a definite and easily understood game-plan without broadening our tactical approach. I feel we need to expand our game to succeed at the highest level.

"When he speaks to the team, he keeps it simple, makes sense but doesn't inspire. His man-management has been good with some, not great with others. He is easy to like but difficult to know."

Southgate believes that England's players lack the physical and technical conditioning to win a major tournament.

He said: "For all the hype generated when England go into a tournament, our record is pretty ordinary.

"It wasn't coincidental we were so poor in the second half of the Sweden and Brazil matches. I looked at Brazil and marvelled at their condition. They are magnificent physical specimens who are also technically outstanding."