England coach Fabio Capello has launched a stinging attack on Italian football and reiterated his belief that England has the edge when it comes to comparing both countries' domestic leagues.

In an astonishing attack the 63-year-old, who was born in San Canzian d'Isonzo, has claimed that Italian clubs are at the mercy of ultras and that the much maligned art of diving is applauded.

The former AC Milan and Juventus boss was speaking at a special seminar in Coverciano organised by the Italian FA and when asked for his views on the aforementioned subjects, the 'Don' gave a frank assessment.

"It's the ultras who rule in Serie A. There is no courage to apply the laws against them," he was reported as saying by Sky Sports Italia.

"In Italy the divers are praised and receive prizes - in England they are jeered," he added.

Capello’s comments will no doubt cause a stir in his homeland and reinforce many Italians views that he is a 'sell-out', and unsurprisingly both Italian FA president Giancarlo Abete and Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) chief Gianni Petrucci hit-back at Capello's comments.

"I am not enthused with what Capello said. His speeches don't serve any purpose," Petrucci fumed.

"We are not hostage to the ultras," Abete affirmed.

With both sides having already qualified for next summer's World Cup finals in South Africa what price England meeting Italy at the Soccer City Stadium, in Johannesburg come 11 July 2010!