England manager Roy Hodgson has insisted that comparisons to his predecessor Fabio Capello will not prove to be a distraction for the former West Bromwich Albion boss.
Many have suggested that the 64-year-old is yet to implement his own stance on the Three Lions' set-up since inheriting Capello's team following the Italian's swift departure in February.
"I am sure people will compare me with Capello because this is the team he qualified for this tournament," said Hodgson. "I am sure he must still be disappointed not to be here coaching this team himself. But it will only become a hindrance if we allow it.
"Obviously there will be lots of things written that are not 100% truthful or that I wouldn't want to read or hear, but that's life. That won't stop me from preparing the team. There are no words that can affect my job with the team."
England are preparing to take on Italy in the last quarter-final of Euro 2012 on Sunday.
Danielle Joynson
