World Cup: Graham Taylor blames Premier League for World Cup woe
FORMER England manager Graham Taylor believes the national side’s continuing struggles are partly due to the heavy emphasis placed on the Premier League.
Taylor, who resigned as England boss in 1993 after failing to qualify for USA ‘94, had harsh words for current manager Fabio Capello and his players after their 4-1 humbling at the hands of Germany but insists there are structural problems at play too.
“Club football reigns supreme in our country,” he said.
“When there’s no club football we all become England supporters but we are club-orientated to such a degree that since the formation of the Premier League, the FA is still seen as the ruling body but it doesn’t work that way.
“There needs to be a better understanding of the clubs and the international side in terms of how we can prepare for tournaments in a better way.”
Asked whether Capello would pay for the dismal World Cup showing with his job, Taylor was uncertain.
The former Villa boss believes the players must share the blame, but conceded the Italian may carry the can.
“If he stays there is an immense pressure now,’’ said Taylor.
‘‘It was his first international tournament and he will have learned a lot from it but whether he will be about for another one is open to debate.”
