UK Football

By Rex Gowar

LONDON, Aug 11 (Reuters) - Euro 2008 absentees England can be as strong as tournament winners Spain and will qualify for the 2010 World Cup, coach Fabio Capello said on Monday.

"Technically the players are as good Spain's but with a different style and mentality. We have to be very confident (in ourselves)," Capello told reporters at Wembley Stadium.

"We have a very good team ... it's important to focus on ourselves. We can qualify for the World Cup, we will be in South Africa, I'm sure."

Spain landed their first major title in 44 years when they beat Germany 1-0 in the final in Vienna in June. England are without a trophy since winning the 1966 World Cup.

"The level at the Euros was good, we have that same level or better," added Capello.

"I must transmit the spirit (of those teams) to the players to play with confidence. In our four games (so far), step by step we have been getting better.

"I'm convinced in the next match they will play with lots of confidence," said the Italian at the McDonald's National Festival for Children.

CZECH WARMUP

England have beaten Switzerland, United States and Trinidad & Tobago and lost in France in friendlies since Capello took charge earlier this year.

They have one more warmup, against Czech Republic at Wembley next week, to prepare for their first two World Cup qualifiers in Andorra and Croatia next month.

Capello laid out his goals for the six matches England have scheduled for the rest of 2008.

"We need good organisation, to play quickly and not always the long ball, he said.

Capello will name his squad for the Aug. 20 match against the Czechs after Saturday's opening Premier League games.

He said he had his ideal 11 in mind but his choices would depend on fitness, with striker Wayne Rooney and midfielder Steven Gerrard doubtful.

"I hope they will be fit for Andorra and Croatia," Capello said.