England boss Fabio Capello says the Premier League is head-and-shoulders above the Serie A in quality.

Capello slammed the Italian game for having worse stadiums, weaker security, less sportsmanship and lower attendances than in the English top flight.

He said: "The English Premier League has overtaken Serie A.

"In England you feel a lot safer at a stadium.

"Children and families go to games in England and that's beautiful. In Italy things are not going like they should.

"Grounds in England are far better and the security is very good. There is a more sporting atmosphere and the game is followed very passionately - the grounds are always full.

"In Italy the game is in the hands of the Ultras."

Italy's top sports daily Gazzetta Dello Sport blasted Capello for his damning remarks, writing on its website: "Professor Capello fails us and says it's better to work abroad."