FABIO CAPELLO has warned Alex Ferguson that Manchester United are no longer a "war machine".
And the England boss has virtually guaranteed United old boy David Beckham a World Cup spot.
Beckham, 34, rejoined AC Milan yesterday for a second loan spell from LA Galaxy and faces United in the first knockout stage of this season's Champions League.
The former England captain was met by a driver from AC Milan in an official car but opted to get behind the wheel himself as he smiled and waved to photographers and waiting fans.
And he received a lift from England boss Capello who backed him to shine in Milan before heading to South Africa with England for next summer's World Cup finals.
Capello said: "David will do well at Milan again - he is a player with his head screwed on as far as football is concerned and he'll help them succeed.
"I've no doubt about that and I'll take him to the World Cup at the end of the season so long as he is fit and playing regularly.
"I don't look at the birthdate on a player's passport, age is not the primary concern. I always judge on quality and David has tons.
"He is serious about his game, he's a top-class professional and cares a great deal about this World Cup."
Capello had more bad news for Ferguson by suggesting that United could be pipped to a fourth straight Premier League title come May.
The Italian reckons they are losing power at the wrong time, saying: "Manchester United were a war machine but they have started to slow down a bit compared to previously.
"At this moment I'd rate all the top four - Chelsea, United, Arsenal and Aston Villa - as each having a 25 per cent chance of winning the title, it's that close.
"I also think Manchester City and Liverpool will improve in the second half of the season but the top four share equal chances of winning. It will be a very beautiful title race."
Capello, who led Milan to Champions League glory in 1994, expects an English team to make the final again this season but believes they could well face Italian opposition.
He added: "The English clubs and Italian clubs are at the same level right now.
"But after the African Cup of Nations and other fixtures in the next four or five weeks, who goes forward will depend on the shape each side is in when the knockout ties arrive in February.
"I'm sure an English club will play in the Champions League final but against whom let's just wait and see."
The man who has led three different clubs to the Serie A title is also loving the fact Italian football is in vogue in the Premier League again with new Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini joining West Ham's Gianfranco Zola and Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea.
But he is not surprised, saying: "We export good products.
"Italian coaches don't just come for the salaries, we bring ideas, talent and experience.
"But in England you live well, there is a special atmosphere, full stadia, safety for players and fans and there is less stupidity than in Italy."
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