When asked by the media what he would expect from England's next World Cup qualifier, away to Kazakhstan in six days, Fabio Capello responded: "To win."

That attitude is not a result of any over-confidence, but merely another symbol of the standards that Capello works to and expects his players to reach.

The mere suggestion that players from Chelsea, Everton and Manchester United - who played in European and domestic cup finals in the last three days - would be tired, was dismissed by the England manager who made it clear just what he is looking for in the next ten days.

Six points from the next two matches, Capello admitted, would represent a "big step towards South Africa.

"For me the most important thing is to win. It is my philosophy to win, and in this period it is very important that we win and score six points."

Capello does not believe that defeat for the likes of Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand in the Champions League Final will affect their form for England.

"I reached three finals and only won one, but you always have to look to the future. You have to forget what happened and move forward.

"In football we are very lucky; we can win immediately after losing. For these players the next game will be very important for this reason."

Capello also believes that the reaction of John Terry a year ago to losing the Champions League Final is exactly what he expects from the Manchester United players this time around.

"Terry is one fighter. He played very well (against USA) and I hope for the same reaction from the other players.

"But in your career it is normal to lose and to win. For me, I forgot every time I lost - you win and you lose."