England boss Fabio Capello has dismissed the controversy of leaving Newcastle United striker Michael Owen on the bench for this week's friendly against Switzerland.

The Italian said: "I believe it's much more important what we did on the pitch rather than talking about a single player.

"I know he's a big player and if he's here it means he's still part of my plans like everyone else I selected.

"I don't know what will happen in the future, I know him very well and I'm interested in seeing as many players as I can.

"He just needs to carry on doing what he has done so far. If he's here it means he's part of my group.

"It's not because I like or dislike people. I make choices, the 23 players I have start all at the same level, there's nothing personal about my choices."