Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't understand the lack of quality penalty takers in England.

According to the Manchester United boss, English players just don't match up to countries like Germany when it comes to the pressured occasion, perhaps because they 'can't be bothered' to practise as much.

"You can certainly criticise Wayne (Rooney) as that was his 10th miss from the spot (against West Ham United), but at the same time I must point out missing a penalty does not faze him," Ferguson told United Review.

"Other players with different temperaments could go to pieces.

"It's a particular art. The Germans are good, especially in internationals and big competitions, and I think they practice, unlike in England - it seems we either can't be bothered - perhaps players see it as boring, or as if we regard it as almost cheating.

"We will really have to up our game in this area."