Manchester United's 'war machine' has slowed down, says Fabio Capello

The champions have failed to hit the heights this season following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer. United remain in contention for silverware both at home and on the continent, but Capello believes their aura has faded. "Manchester United were a war machine and they have slowed down,' he told Gazzetta dello Sport. Assessing United's title rivals, Capello added: 'Chelsea are fine, but the other teams are getting better - Arsenal and Aston Villa and then those teams further behind. (Roberto) Mancini's Manchester City and (Alberto) Aquilani's Liverpool will pick up speed.'In a wide-ranging interview with the Italian sports daily, Capello also spoke about England's World Cup group and refuted the suggestion that the USA, Algeria and Slovenia represent an easy draw. "I would be cautious,' he said. 'The USA will be difficult. Football is a very serious thing and our opponents are respected, especially in the World Cup finals.'Capello also appeared to guarantee David Beckham's World Cup selection, saying: 'If he (Beckham) plays well and is fit I will include him in my squad. "I don't look at age, I pay attention to quality and David has a lot of that. He's serious, he's a great professional and he's crazy about the World Cup. "He will do well again for Milan because he has a good head on his shoulders."

Source: Telegraph