England boss Fabio Capello has described Manchester United striker Michael Owen as his great "tormentor".

Capello compared his situation to that of Italy coach Marcello Lippi, who has been criticised for overlooking Sampdoria forward Antonio Cassano.

Speaking at a seminar based at Coverciano titled 'Football And Those Who Discuss It', he said: "Cassano? I have Owen. I already have a tormentor, each one has their own."

Owen, who missed the recent World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Belarus through injury, has not played for England since early last year and his chances of making it to the World Cup in South Africa look slim.