There’s only one tried and trusted way of correctly predicting final group standings at major international tournaments.
But replacing every single player and referee with robots would be time consuming and expensive.
So we’ll try the next best (and far cheaper) method: Close our eyes and hope for the best.
Predictions for Group A below:
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
UEFA Euro 2008
The 2008 UEFA European Football Championship, commonly referred to as Euro 2008, will take place in Austria and Switzerland from 7 June to 29 June 2008. It is the second successful joint bid in the competition's history, following the UEFA Euro 2000 hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. The 2012 competition in Poland and Ukraine is scheduled to become the third jointly-hosted tournament.
A total of 16 teams will participate in the tournament. Austria and Switzerland automatically qualified as hosts; the remaining 14 teams have been determined through qualifying matches which started in August 2006. Austria and Poland will be making their first appearance in the tournament. The winner of Euro 2008 will represent UEFA at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa, unless Italy wins the tournament, in which case the runner-up will be entered, as Italy is already entered as the winner of the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
A total of 16 teams will participate in the tournament. Austria and Switzerland automatically qualified as hosts; the remaining 14 teams have been determined through qualifying matches which started in August 2006. Austria and Poland will be making their first appearance in the tournament. The winner of Euro 2008 will represent UEFA at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa, unless Italy wins the tournament, in which case the runner-up will be entered, as Italy is already entered as the winner of the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Bid process
The two countries jointly bid to host the games, and faced major competition from Greece/Turkey, Scotland/Ireland, Russia, Hungary, Croatia/Bosnia-Herzegovina and a 4-way Nordic bid from Norway/Sweden/Denmark/Finland. Austria had already bid with another country before, which was Hungary for Euro 2004. They had eventually lost to Portugal.
Austria/Switzerland, Greece/Turkey, and Hungary were recommended before the final vote. Greece and Turkey were rejected and let Hungary and Austria/Switzerland battle for the win.
Austria/Switzerland, Greece/Turkey, and Hungary were recommended before the final vote. Greece and Turkey were rejected and let Hungary and Austria/Switzerland battle for the win.
Final tournament schedule
Saturday 7 June 2008
1 Grp A Switzerland 18:00 Czech Republic Basel - St. Jakob-Park
2 Grp A Portugal 20:45 Turkey Geneva - Stade de Genève
Sunday 8 June 2008
3 Grp B Austria 18:00 Croatia Vienna - Ernst Happel
4 Grp B Germany 20:45 Poland Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
Monday 9 June 2008
5 Grp C Romania 18:00 France Zurich - Letzigrund
6 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 Italy Berne - Stade de Suisse
Tuesday 10 June 2008
7 Grp D Spain 18:00 Russia Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
8 Grp D Greece 20:45 Sweden Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
Wednesday 11 June 2008
9 Grp A Czech Republic 18:00 Portugal Geneva - Stade de Genève
10 Grp A Switzerland 20:45 Turkey Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Thursday 12 June 2008
11 Grp B Croatia 18:00 Germany Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
12 Grp B Austria 20:45 Poland Vienna - Ernst Happel
Friday 13 June 2008
13 Grp C Italy 18:00 Romania Zurich - Letzigrund
14 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 France Berne - Stade de Suisse
Saturday 14 June 2008
15 Grp D Sweden 18:00 Spain Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
16 Grp D Greece 20:45 Russia Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
Sunday 15 June 2008
17 Grp A Switzerland 20:45 Portugal Basel - St. Jakob-Park
18 Grp A Turkey 20:45 Czech Republic Geneva - Stade de Genève
Monday 16 June 2008
19 Grp B Poland 20:45 Croatia Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
20 Grp B Austria 20:45 Germany Vienna - Ernst Happel
Tuesday 17 June 2008
21 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 Romania Berne - Stade de Suisse
22 Grp C France 20:45 Italy Zurich - Letzigrund
Wednesday 18 June 2008
23 Grp D Greece 20:45 Spain Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
24 Grp D Russia 20:45 Sweden Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
Thursday 19 June 2008
25 QF Winner Grp A 20:45 Runner-up Grp B Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Friday 20 June 2008
26 QF Winner Grp B 20:45 Runner-up Grp A Vienna - Ernst Happel
Saturday 21 June 2008
27 QF Winner Grp C 20:45 Runner-up Grp D Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Sunday 22 June 2008
28 QF Winner Grp D 20:45 Runner-up Grp C Vienna - Ernst Happel
Wednesday 25 June 2008
29 SF Winner #25 20:45 Winner #26 Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Thursday 26 June 2008
30 SF Winner #27 20:45 Winner #28 Vienna - Ernst Happel
Sunday 29 June 2008
31 F Winner #29 20:45 Winner #30 Vienna - Ernst Happel
1 Grp A Switzerland 18:00 Czech Republic Basel - St. Jakob-Park
2 Grp A Portugal 20:45 Turkey Geneva - Stade de Genève
Sunday 8 June 2008
3 Grp B Austria 18:00 Croatia Vienna - Ernst Happel
4 Grp B Germany 20:45 Poland Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
Monday 9 June 2008
5 Grp C Romania 18:00 France Zurich - Letzigrund
6 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 Italy Berne - Stade de Suisse
Tuesday 10 June 2008
7 Grp D Spain 18:00 Russia Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
8 Grp D Greece 20:45 Sweden Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
Wednesday 11 June 2008
9 Grp A Czech Republic 18:00 Portugal Geneva - Stade de Genève
10 Grp A Switzerland 20:45 Turkey Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Thursday 12 June 2008
11 Grp B Croatia 18:00 Germany Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
12 Grp B Austria 20:45 Poland Vienna - Ernst Happel
Friday 13 June 2008
13 Grp C Italy 18:00 Romania Zurich - Letzigrund
14 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 France Berne - Stade de Suisse
Saturday 14 June 2008
15 Grp D Sweden 18:00 Spain Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
16 Grp D Greece 20:45 Russia Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
Sunday 15 June 2008
17 Grp A Switzerland 20:45 Portugal Basel - St. Jakob-Park
18 Grp A Turkey 20:45 Czech Republic Geneva - Stade de Genève
Monday 16 June 2008
19 Grp B Poland 20:45 Croatia Klagenfurt - Wörthersee
20 Grp B Austria 20:45 Germany Vienna - Ernst Happel
Tuesday 17 June 2008
21 Grp C Netherlands 20:45 Romania Berne - Stade de Suisse
22 Grp C France 20:45 Italy Zurich - Letzigrund
Wednesday 18 June 2008
23 Grp D Greece 20:45 Spain Salzburg - EM Stadion Wals-Siezenheim
24 Grp D Russia 20:45 Sweden Innsbruck - Tivoli Neu
Thursday 19 June 2008
25 QF Winner Grp A 20:45 Runner-up Grp B Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Friday 20 June 2008
26 QF Winner Grp B 20:45 Runner-up Grp A Vienna - Ernst Happel
Saturday 21 June 2008
27 QF Winner Grp C 20:45 Runner-up Grp D Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Sunday 22 June 2008
28 QF Winner Grp D 20:45 Runner-up Grp C Vienna - Ernst Happel
Wednesday 25 June 2008
29 SF Winner #25 20:45 Winner #26 Basel - St. Jakob-Park
Thursday 26 June 2008
30 SF Winner #27 20:45 Winner #28 Vienna - Ernst Happel
Sunday 29 June 2008
31 F Winner #29 20:45 Winner #30 Vienna - Ernst Happel
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Italy rocked by Cannavaro injury
Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro will miss Euro 2008 after tearing ligaments in his left ankle during training.
The Real Madrid defender collided with Giorgio Chiellini in a practice match at Italy's base in Austria on Monday.
After the incident, Cannavaro lay on the pitch for about 20 minutes before being stretchered off.
Fiorentina's Alessandro Gamberini has been called up as his replacement, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon likely to take over the captaincy.
Italy had been in Austria for just six hours when Cannavaro suffered his injury.
A statement issued by the Italian Football Federation said: "The news we feared was confirmed in Baden late on Monday evening.
"Fabio Cannavaro will say goodbye to our European adventure, before it has even begun.
"The captain has suffered torn ligaments, which happened the moment his foot made contact with the ground. His ankle twisted awkwardly."
Cannavaro, 34, capped 116 times, skippered Italy to 2006 World Cup glory in Germany, winning the World Player of the Year award.
His absence is a serious setback for Italy, who are in Euro 2008's 'Group of Death' with France, the Netherlands and dark horses Romania.
However, the emergence of centre-back Andrea Barzagli, who has produced some assured displays for Italy in the last year, will slightly cushion the blow.
Defender Marco Materazzi is also in the squad while Chiellini and Christian Panucci can play at centre-back rather than full-back.
Italy open their campaign against the Dutch on Monday 9 June in Berne.
The Real Madrid defender collided with Giorgio Chiellini in a practice match at Italy's base in Austria on Monday.
After the incident, Cannavaro lay on the pitch for about 20 minutes before being stretchered off.
Fiorentina's Alessandro Gamberini has been called up as his replacement, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon likely to take over the captaincy.
Italy had been in Austria for just six hours when Cannavaro suffered his injury.
A statement issued by the Italian Football Federation said: "The news we feared was confirmed in Baden late on Monday evening.
"Fabio Cannavaro will say goodbye to our European adventure, before it has even begun.
"The captain has suffered torn ligaments, which happened the moment his foot made contact with the ground. His ankle twisted awkwardly."
Cannavaro, 34, capped 116 times, skippered Italy to 2006 World Cup glory in Germany, winning the World Player of the Year award.
His absence is a serious setback for Italy, who are in Euro 2008's 'Group of Death' with France, the Netherlands and dark horses Romania.
However, the emergence of centre-back Andrea Barzagli, who has produced some assured displays for Italy in the last year, will slightly cushion the blow.
Defender Marco Materazzi is also in the squad while Chiellini and Christian Panucci can play at centre-back rather than full-back.
Italy open their campaign against the Dutch on Monday 9 June in Berne.
EURO video game – on sale now!
The passion fans have for their national teams and all of the excitement of the UEFA European Football Championship™ can be experienced with the only official, exclusively licensed videogame of UEFA EURO 2008™.
World's best players
UEFA EURO 2008™, published by Electronic Arts, features stunning visual representations of the world’s best players, playing in a more accessible, faster-paced and responsive version of the market-leading EA SPORTS™ football engine, and all of the teams and official stadiums that will be part of UEFA EURO 2008™.
Drama and excitement
Take on the challenge of leading one of over 50 European national teams to glory as UEFA EURO 2008™ recreates all of the drama and excitement of the official tournament in Austria and Switzerland. Play as your favorite country from qualification right through to a virtual reproduction of the championship tournament.
Face the challenge
A new game mode called Captain Your Country enables gamers to customize them on the pitch and wear the shirt of their national team. Work through eight status levels to earn the captaincy of your team and then lead your country into battle for championship glory against your rivals. Go online in Battle of the Nations to earn status points for yourself and your country in a competition for global supremacy. Go for the biggest upsets to earn the most points and then watch you and your country move up the leader boards. Face the challenge and pressure of competing in the championship rounds in the EURO Online Knockout Draw to test your skills against the world’s best.
Experience the thrill
UEFA EURO 2008™ captures the look and feel of the journey from qualification to the finals with rain and mud dynamics that impact playing conditions, real-time player ratings that change based on player performance, and a penalty kick mode that re-creates the elation and agony of a penalty shoot-out as if you were on the pitch. Experience the thrill of scoring the goal that sends your country through to the next round and then choose how to celebrate it with all-new interactive user-controlled celebrations.
Play with heroes
Captain your country, play alongside your heroes, and inspire them to championship glory in the official videogame of UEFA EURO 2008™.
Man Utd could report Real to Fifa
Manchester United have threatened to report Real Madrid to Fifa over their interest in signing Cristiano Ronaldo.
A United statement read: "We have watched with growing irritation the comments attributed to Real Madrid over their alleged desire to sign Cristiano.
"We will have no alternative but to report Real if it continues to behave in this totally unacceptable fashion."
But Real president Ramon Calderon said: "We know they aren't a selling club. It is a problem between player and team."
United's statement came after Madrid coach Bernd Schuster claimed the 23-year-old Portuguese winger was the club's number one summer transfer target.
The statement from Old Trafford added: "These public attempts to unsettle the player are completely against the regulations and the club will not tolerate them any longer.
"The player is on a long-term contract and his registration is held by Manchester United. The player is not for sale.
"We haven't done anything and we are not going to do anything that goes against the wishes of a club we regard as a friend," he added.
The simple fact is Cristiano has another four years left on his contract
Sir Alex Ferguson
"No-one should be in any doubt that Manchester United will do everything in its power to keep its best players."
Calderon insisted his club were not trying to unsettle the star.
"We aren't going to start a conflict. If a club doesn't want to sell why would we insist they sell him?"
The comments from both clubs are the latest twists in a story that has rolled on for months, with Ronaldo refusing to state publicly and unequivocally that his future lay with United.
After United's victory in the Champions League final over Chelsea, he told BBC Sport: "I don't promise nothing. I don't promise nothing to my mum, I don't promise nothing to supporters."
However, United chief executive David Gill subsequently told BBC Radio 5 Live: "He's got four more years with us and we're sure he'll be with us for many years."
And the club's threat to report Real to Fifa follows manager Sir Alex Ferguson's comments on the matter last week, accusing the Spanish champions of "lacking morals".
"Schuster's talking and Calderon's talking," he said. "Real think they can ride roughshod over everyone, but they won't do it with us. They have no moral issues."
Lux-Aeterna
And Ferguson drew a comparison with Real's fierce rivals Barcelona as he fought to draw a line under continuing speculation surrounding the 23-year-old Portuguese winger's future.
He said: "In terms of great clubs, Barcelona have far better morality than Real Madrid will ever have. Real use this Marca newspaper as a vehicle to unsettle players.
"Do you not think we have had many expressions of interest about our players from big clubs in Europe?
"Real Madrid are not the only club interested in Ronaldo. But the others are not saying so. They don't get into this nonsense.
"Calderon makes that great statement 'slavery was abolished many years ago'. Did they tell General Franco that? Give me a break.
"The simple fact is Cristiano has another four years left on his contract."
United have sold David Beckham, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Gabriel Heinze to Real in recent years, but Ferguson insisted the case of Ronaldo was different.
He said: "Yes, we sold them Van Nistelrooy and Beckham but we did that because we wanted to."
And Argentine defender Heinze was transferred to Real last summer after failing in a public battle to secure a move to United's arch-rivals Liverpool.
A United statement read: "We have watched with growing irritation the comments attributed to Real Madrid over their alleged desire to sign Cristiano.
"We will have no alternative but to report Real if it continues to behave in this totally unacceptable fashion."
But Real president Ramon Calderon said: "We know they aren't a selling club. It is a problem between player and team."
United's statement came after Madrid coach Bernd Schuster claimed the 23-year-old Portuguese winger was the club's number one summer transfer target.
The statement from Old Trafford added: "These public attempts to unsettle the player are completely against the regulations and the club will not tolerate them any longer.
"The player is on a long-term contract and his registration is held by Manchester United. The player is not for sale.
"We haven't done anything and we are not going to do anything that goes against the wishes of a club we regard as a friend," he added.
The simple fact is Cristiano has another four years left on his contract
Sir Alex Ferguson
"No-one should be in any doubt that Manchester United will do everything in its power to keep its best players."
Calderon insisted his club were not trying to unsettle the star.
"We aren't going to start a conflict. If a club doesn't want to sell why would we insist they sell him?"
The comments from both clubs are the latest twists in a story that has rolled on for months, with Ronaldo refusing to state publicly and unequivocally that his future lay with United.
After United's victory in the Champions League final over Chelsea, he told BBC Sport: "I don't promise nothing. I don't promise nothing to my mum, I don't promise nothing to supporters."
However, United chief executive David Gill subsequently told BBC Radio 5 Live: "He's got four more years with us and we're sure he'll be with us for many years."
And the club's threat to report Real to Fifa follows manager Sir Alex Ferguson's comments on the matter last week, accusing the Spanish champions of "lacking morals".
"Schuster's talking and Calderon's talking," he said. "Real think they can ride roughshod over everyone, but they won't do it with us. They have no moral issues."
Lux-Aeterna
And Ferguson drew a comparison with Real's fierce rivals Barcelona as he fought to draw a line under continuing speculation surrounding the 23-year-old Portuguese winger's future.
He said: "In terms of great clubs, Barcelona have far better morality than Real Madrid will ever have. Real use this Marca newspaper as a vehicle to unsettle players.
"Do you not think we have had many expressions of interest about our players from big clubs in Europe?
"Real Madrid are not the only club interested in Ronaldo. But the others are not saying so. They don't get into this nonsense.
"Calderon makes that great statement 'slavery was abolished many years ago'. Did they tell General Franco that? Give me a break.
"The simple fact is Cristiano has another four years left on his contract."
United have sold David Beckham, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Gabriel Heinze to Real in recent years, but Ferguson insisted the case of Ronaldo was different.
He said: "Yes, we sold them Van Nistelrooy and Beckham but we did that because we wanted to."
And Argentine defender Heinze was transferred to Real last summer after failing in a public battle to secure a move to United's arch-rivals Liverpool.
Beckham urges Ronaldo to stay put
Former Manchester United star David Beckham has urged Cristiano Ronaldo not to follow in his footsteps by leaving Old Trafford to sign for Real Madrid.
The Spanish giants are tracking the 23-year-old, despite being warned off by United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Beckham, who joined Real in 2003, said: "I believe he's at the right club now, a club he should stay at.
"He's only been there a few years. He's got a lot of people around him there who will protect him."
Beckham added: "As much as Real are a great team and one of the biggest clubs in the world, he's only just starting at United."
Ronaldo, who scored 42 goals as his side won the Champions League and the Premier League last season, says he will clarify his future in the next few days.
He's priceless. He's not going anywhere
Lux-Aeterna
Ferguson is sure the Portuguese winger will stay, saying: "I'm confident about that. I'm very confident.
"It's a game Real play all the time, In the past they've done it with Beckham, they've done it with Ronaldo, they've done it with my fitness coach last summer when they took him away from us, so we're used to it.
"It's a compliment to the standard of players we have, and we always seem to produce, but I am more than confident Cristiano will be with us next year."
"The Glazer family will not be messed about in this situation.
"We want Cristiano to stay for a long, long time. He is on a fantastic contract and quite rightly so - he's the best player in the world."
The Spanish giants are tracking the 23-year-old, despite being warned off by United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Beckham, who joined Real in 2003, said: "I believe he's at the right club now, a club he should stay at.
"He's only been there a few years. He's got a lot of people around him there who will protect him."
Beckham added: "As much as Real are a great team and one of the biggest clubs in the world, he's only just starting at United."
Ronaldo, who scored 42 goals as his side won the Champions League and the Premier League last season, says he will clarify his future in the next few days.
He's priceless. He's not going anywhere
Lux-Aeterna
Ferguson is sure the Portuguese winger will stay, saying: "I'm confident about that. I'm very confident.
"It's a game Real play all the time, In the past they've done it with Beckham, they've done it with Ronaldo, they've done it with my fitness coach last summer when they took him away from us, so we're used to it.
"It's a compliment to the standard of players we have, and we always seem to produce, but I am more than confident Cristiano will be with us next year."
"The Glazer family will not be messed about in this situation.
"We want Cristiano to stay for a long, long time. He is on a fantastic contract and quite rightly so - he's the best player in the world."
Euro 2008 Kits.
The latest Euro 2008 football Kits will be released in the next few weeks.
Many fans who will be traveling and touring to Austria and Switzerland from across Europe will be trying to get hold of the latest football kit of their national team.
So far teams that will not be changing their football kits for the Euro 2008 include big teams such as Portugal, Italy and Spain.
The Euro 2008 kit for Greece will be changing, and their white shirt will now become the default kit which they play in for all their Euro 2008 fixtures. Make sure if you travel to Switzerland that you have all the Euro 2008 kits and football tickets.
Some of the biggest Euro Cup fixtures will be: Spain Vs Russia, Holland Vs France, Switzerland Vs Portugal, Greece Vs Spain , Austria Vs Croatia. So make sure you get hold of a Croatia kit for the Euro 2008 if you are a Croatian fan. We will have all the latest Euro 2008 livescore and results from all the fixtures.
Many fans who will be traveling and touring to Austria and Switzerland from across Europe will be trying to get hold of the latest football kit of their national team.
So far teams that will not be changing their football kits for the Euro 2008 include big teams such as Portugal, Italy and Spain.
The Euro 2008 kit for Greece will be changing, and their white shirt will now become the default kit which they play in for all their Euro 2008 fixtures. Make sure if you travel to Switzerland that you have all the Euro 2008 kits and football tickets.
Some of the biggest Euro Cup fixtures will be: Spain Vs Russia, Holland Vs France, Switzerland Vs Portugal, Greece Vs Spain , Austria Vs Croatia. So make sure you get hold of a Croatia kit for the Euro 2008 if you are a Croatian fan. We will have all the latest Euro 2008 livescore and results from all the fixtures.
Fans Flock To Switzerland For Euro 2008.
The Euro 2008 is just a few days away and fans have been gathering in Austria.
Finding accommodation in Austria and Switzerland is virtually impossible with almost all the hotels being completely booked out. Football fever has hit Switzerland hard, with the opening match of the Euro 2008: Switzerland Vs Czech Republic taking place in the capital.
There have been many international football friendlies this last week, and now teams will be getting ready to participate in the Euro Cup.
Many fans have bought the new Portugal kit for the Euro 2008. There will be a sale for all the new kits which include teams such as Greece, France, Spain, Holland, Austria. We will have all the live scores and results from the Euro 2008 as well as fan pictures and photographs from the event.
We are counting down the days to the Euro 2008 and all fans around the world will be doing the same! Get ready for Europe's greatest footballing show. The Euro 2008 is just a few days away!
Finding accommodation in Austria and Switzerland is virtually impossible with almost all the hotels being completely booked out. Football fever has hit Switzerland hard, with the opening match of the Euro 2008: Switzerland Vs Czech Republic taking place in the capital.
There have been many international football friendlies this last week, and now teams will be getting ready to participate in the Euro Cup.
Many fans have bought the new Portugal kit for the Euro 2008. There will be a sale for all the new kits which include teams such as Greece, France, Spain, Holland, Austria. We will have all the live scores and results from the Euro 2008 as well as fan pictures and photographs from the event.
We are counting down the days to the Euro 2008 and all fans around the world will be doing the same! Get ready for Europe's greatest footballing show. The Euro 2008 is just a few days away!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Archive: France 2-1 Italy - Euro 2000
Sylvain Wiltord and David Trezeguet come off the bench to spark a dramatic comeback and win the 2000 European Championship for France.
Archive: Portugal 0-1 Greece - Euro 2004
Angelos Charisteas scores the only goal of the final of Euro 2004 to give Greece a shock victory over the hosts Portugal.
Chelsea boss - latest gossip
Chelsea are hunting for a new manager after sacking Avram Grant last month.
BBC Sport monitors the latest speculation on who might succeed him at Stamford Bridge.
BBC Sport monitors the latest speculation on who might succeed him at Stamford Bridge.
Thaksin denies plan to sell squad
Manchester City owner Thaksin Shinawatra has denied a newspaper's claim that he has put the club's entire first team squad up for sale.
Thaksin told City's website: "There is absolutely no truth to this story or any of the allegations.
"I appreciate the progress and performance of the whole squad, managed by Sven-Goran Eriksson, this season."
On Thursday Thaksin dined with Eriksson and City players in Bangkok, where they face a Thai All Star team on Saturday.
Thaksin added that the claim that deputy chairman John Wardle had apologised to players for selling the club was "without any foundation".
A Manchester City spokesman said the club was considering legal action over the claims.
606: DEBATE
Who will leave Man City this season?
Thaksin has already indicated to former England manager Eriksson that his services will not be required next season.
City finished ninth in the Premier League this season, but lost their final match of the campaign 8-1 to Middlesbrough.
They will play in the Uefa Cup next season after winning a place through the fair play league.
Thaksin told City's website: "There is absolutely no truth to this story or any of the allegations.
"I appreciate the progress and performance of the whole squad, managed by Sven-Goran Eriksson, this season."
On Thursday Thaksin dined with Eriksson and City players in Bangkok, where they face a Thai All Star team on Saturday.
Thaksin added that the claim that deputy chairman John Wardle had apologised to players for selling the club was "without any foundation".
A Manchester City spokesman said the club was considering legal action over the claims.
606: DEBATE
Who will leave Man City this season?
Thaksin has already indicated to former England manager Eriksson that his services will not be required next season.
City finished ninth in the Premier League this season, but lost their final match of the campaign 8-1 to Middlesbrough.
They will play in the Uefa Cup next season after winning a place through the fair play league.
Dunne set for Man City departure
Manchester City are resigned to losing captain Richard Dunne after he turned down a new contract - with Spurs leading the chase to sign the defender.
BBC Sport understands Dunne, 28, has rejected a long-term deal, leaving City facing the prospect of him leaving on a free transfer at the end of next term.
Spurs are now closing in on a £5m deal for the Republic of Ireland star, with Portsmouth keen on his signature too.
Newcastle and West Ham have also been linked with the 28-year-old.
606: DEBATE
What do you make of Man City's summer of uncertainty?
City were desperate to keep Dunne, but his reluctance to commit his future to the club sparked fears of a repeat of Sylvain Distin's move to Portsmouth last summer, when he left on a free transfer after turning down a new deal.
And City are now resigned to losing their reigning player of the year and raking in the cash towards their summer rebuilding plans.
Dunne's imminent departure only adds to the uncertainty at Eastlands, with manager Sven-Goran Eriksson effectively waiting to be sacked by owner Thaksin Shinawatra, a move that has angered City's fans.
The powerful Irishman has become a hugely popular figure at City since signing in a £3m deal from Everton in October 2000, being voted the fans' player of the year for the last four seasons
BBC Sport understands Dunne, 28, has rejected a long-term deal, leaving City facing the prospect of him leaving on a free transfer at the end of next term.
Spurs are now closing in on a £5m deal for the Republic of Ireland star, with Portsmouth keen on his signature too.
Newcastle and West Ham have also been linked with the 28-year-old.
606: DEBATE
What do you make of Man City's summer of uncertainty?
City were desperate to keep Dunne, but his reluctance to commit his future to the club sparked fears of a repeat of Sylvain Distin's move to Portsmouth last summer, when he left on a free transfer after turning down a new deal.
And City are now resigned to losing their reigning player of the year and raking in the cash towards their summer rebuilding plans.
Dunne's imminent departure only adds to the uncertainty at Eastlands, with manager Sven-Goran Eriksson effectively waiting to be sacked by owner Thaksin Shinawatra, a move that has angered City's fans.
The powerful Irishman has become a hugely popular figure at City since signing in a £3m deal from Everton in October 2000, being voted the fans' player of the year for the last four seasons
Eriksson's reign at Man City ends
Manchester City have split with manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.
Despite guiding City to a Uefa Cup place last season, Eriksson was told by Thai owner Thaksin Shinawatra he was no longer wanted as long ago as April.
"I have enjoyed my time at Manchester City very much and I would like to thank the fans, players and staff for their amazing support," said the Swede.
Former England boss Eriksson took over as City manager last summer and still had two years left on his contract.
City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh said: "The board of directors and all at Manchester City would like to thank Sven for his efforts and contributions throughout the season.
"We wish him well for the future. Sven remains a friend of the club
Despite guiding City to a Uefa Cup place last season, Eriksson was told by Thai owner Thaksin Shinawatra he was no longer wanted as long ago as April.
"I have enjoyed my time at Manchester City very much and I would like to thank the fans, players and staff for their amazing support," said the Swede.
Former England boss Eriksson took over as City manager last summer and still had two years left on his contract.
City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh said: "The board of directors and all at Manchester City would like to thank Sven for his efforts and contributions throughout the season.
"We wish him well for the future. Sven remains a friend of the club
The pain of Spain
I love Spain. I love the food, I love the price of wine in restaurants, I love the fact that I don't feel like a complete imbecile when I'm there because I can speak a little of their language, and I love the fact you can watch top-flight football without your bank account taking a pounding.
But there are things about Spain that trouble me, peculiarities that defy reasonable explanation.
One of them, for example, is the curious way in which some Spanish men drape pastel coloured V-neck sweaters over their shoulders.
Another is the poor record of Spain's national football team. So many talented players but so little success at major tournaments equates to one of life's great imponderables.
Netherlands 2-0 Wales
The Netherlands completed their warm-up for Euro 2008 with a comfortable win over a young Wales side in Rotterdam.
Real Madrid duo Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder produced flashes of brilliance either side of half-time to ease the Dutch to victory at De Kuip stadium.
Robben's run from deep and cool finish put the hosts ahead before Sneijder curled in a stunning free-kick.
Wales keeper Wayne Hennessey pulled off a string of fine saves to ensure John Toshack's side were not humiliated.
Toshack's team arrived in Rotterdam following three successive victories, but the Netherlands proved far stronger opposition than Norway, Luxembourg and Iceland.
The Dutch are among the favourites to win Euro 2008 and within half-and-hour Hennessey could vouched for why.
606: DEBATE
I'm disappointed that Aaron Ramsey didn't get on
voiceofreason2008
The Wolves giant showed why Premier League clubs are tracking his progress with a hat-trick of fine fingertip saves from long range.
Sneijder twice tested the young keeper, once with a quick free-kick, while Rafael van der Vaart forced a full-stretch save.
Robben gave a reminder of his attacking craft and quality as the winger gave young full-back Chris Gunter a torrid time down the Dutch right-flank.
Robben waltzed past the Tottenham defender to tee-up up club-mate Ruud van Nistelrooy but the former Manchester United striker was expertly thwarted by Craig Morgan's last-ditch challenge.
Toshack praised his young side's attitude
And it was no surprise that Robben was the man to ignite the 50,000 capacity De Kuip crowd as he made a mockery of the Wales defence on 35 minutes.
The ex-Chelsea man capitalised on Carl Robinson's misplaced header to sprint 40 yards past Gunter and slide the ball past the helpless Hennessey.
Robben's ninth international goal inspired an air of authority about Marco van Basten's men in their final game before the European Championships.
Dutch keeper Edwin van der Saar was not tested until two minutes before the break but Freddy Eastwood's shot from edge of the area was easily gathered in.
The Netherlands were in cruise control as Wales grafted hard just to remain in touch.
Robben again tore through the visiting defence but his angle after rounding Hennessey was too acute and he failed to convert.
Sneijder, though, did find the net in the 55th minute as the 23-year-old superstar whipped in a sublime 25-yard free-kick.
He unintentionally almost doubled his goal account as another long-ranger was deflected on to the bar by Swansea defender Ashley Williams.
Bellamy demands his side improve
Young Ched Evans set substitute Craig Bellamy free for a rare goal-scoring chance for Wales but the striker's rasping shot was beat out by Van der Sar.
His opposite number Hennessey had to perform heroics once again as his 6ft 4ins frame somehow denied substitute Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink from point blank range.
The Dutch will not be permitted to remain in cruise control in Euro 2008's 'Group of Death.'
Wales' youngsters, on the other hand, have been given a masterclass by the total football architects of what it is like at the very top
Real Madrid duo Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder produced flashes of brilliance either side of half-time to ease the Dutch to victory at De Kuip stadium.
Robben's run from deep and cool finish put the hosts ahead before Sneijder curled in a stunning free-kick.
Wales keeper Wayne Hennessey pulled off a string of fine saves to ensure John Toshack's side were not humiliated.
Toshack's team arrived in Rotterdam following three successive victories, but the Netherlands proved far stronger opposition than Norway, Luxembourg and Iceland.
The Dutch are among the favourites to win Euro 2008 and within half-and-hour Hennessey could vouched for why.
606: DEBATE
I'm disappointed that Aaron Ramsey didn't get on
voiceofreason2008
The Wolves giant showed why Premier League clubs are tracking his progress with a hat-trick of fine fingertip saves from long range.
Sneijder twice tested the young keeper, once with a quick free-kick, while Rafael van der Vaart forced a full-stretch save.
Robben gave a reminder of his attacking craft and quality as the winger gave young full-back Chris Gunter a torrid time down the Dutch right-flank.
Robben waltzed past the Tottenham defender to tee-up up club-mate Ruud van Nistelrooy but the former Manchester United striker was expertly thwarted by Craig Morgan's last-ditch challenge.
Toshack praised his young side's attitude
And it was no surprise that Robben was the man to ignite the 50,000 capacity De Kuip crowd as he made a mockery of the Wales defence on 35 minutes.
The ex-Chelsea man capitalised on Carl Robinson's misplaced header to sprint 40 yards past Gunter and slide the ball past the helpless Hennessey.
Robben's ninth international goal inspired an air of authority about Marco van Basten's men in their final game before the European Championships.
Dutch keeper Edwin van der Saar was not tested until two minutes before the break but Freddy Eastwood's shot from edge of the area was easily gathered in.
The Netherlands were in cruise control as Wales grafted hard just to remain in touch.
Robben again tore through the visiting defence but his angle after rounding Hennessey was too acute and he failed to convert.
Sneijder, though, did find the net in the 55th minute as the 23-year-old superstar whipped in a sublime 25-yard free-kick.
He unintentionally almost doubled his goal account as another long-ranger was deflected on to the bar by Swansea defender Ashley Williams.
Bellamy demands his side improve
Young Ched Evans set substitute Craig Bellamy free for a rare goal-scoring chance for Wales but the striker's rasping shot was beat out by Van der Sar.
His opposite number Hennessey had to perform heroics once again as his 6ft 4ins frame somehow denied substitute Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink from point blank range.
The Dutch will not be permitted to remain in cruise control in Euro 2008's 'Group of Death.'
Wales' youngsters, on the other hand, have been given a masterclass by the total football architects of what it is like at the very top
Football for All
Prior to each quarter-final at UEFA EURO 2008™, disabled players will take to the pitch to show off their skills as part of the Football for All social project.
Anyone can play
The demonstration games – split into two seven-minute halves – are designed to underline the point to visitors to the UEFA European Championship that anyone can play football. In collaboration with UEFA, the Swiss disabled sports federation, PLUSPORT, will be taking over the organisation of the four games in Basel and Vienna. The Austrian disabled sports federation, ÖBSV, will also be supporting the project.
Euro 2008: Who will you support?
England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales may not be at Euro 2008, but look closely and there is still plenty of home interest in Austria and Switzerland.
Whether you want to see how your favourite stars fare against the cream of international football, or you want to cast your eye over your club's latest - or prospective - signings, there is much to get excited about.
And as well as the usual suspects, there are always a few surprise packages to drool over and marvel at on the big European stage.
Here, we look at who might be making a name for themselves at Euro 2008 from your club.
Whether you want to see how your favourite stars fare against the cream of international football, or you want to cast your eye over your club's latest - or prospective - signings, there is much to get excited about.
And as well as the usual suspects, there are always a few surprise packages to drool over and marvel at on the big European stage.
Here, we look at who might be making a name for themselves at Euro 2008 from your club.
Euro 2008 WAGs
The cameras will no doubt be focusing on Eva Gonzalez, other half of Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas, who was named Miss Spain in 2003
Hiddink poised for crowning glory
Guus Hiddink has cast his shadow over world football for the last 20 years - a coaching giant for clubs and countries around the globe.
The 61-year-old Dutchman's impressive CV stretches from winning PSV Eindhoven's first European Cup in 1988 to achieving the remarkable feat of taking South Korea to the World Cup semi-final in 2002.
He took his home country to the last four of France 98 and cemented his reputation by taking part-time charge of Australia and guiding the Socceroos to the last 16 of the 2006 World Cup, where they lost cruelly to an injury-time penalty against Italy.
Hiddink was hailed as a national hero in South Korea when he gave the co-hosts their greatest moment six years ago.
And he has now achieved similar status in Russia, where his face adorns buildings around Moscow and he has even drawn rare public words of affection from prime minister Vladimir Putin
HIDDINK FACTFILE
1946 Born 8 Nov in Wisch
1984 Appointed assistant manager at PSV Eindhoven. Becomes manager in 1986
1988 Hiddink leads PSV to first European Cup win
1995 Holland coach. Reaches quarter-finals of Euro 96, and World Cup 98 semis
1998 Takes over at Real Madrid. Wins World Club Cup
2001 Becomes South Korea national coach and leads them to 2002 World Cup semi-finals
2002 Returns to PSV
2005-06 Australia coach, takes them to 2006 World Cup last 16
2006-present Takes Russia to Euro 2008
Hiddink hopes to cement his reputation as a coaching great and crown his glittering career by guilding Russia to Euro 2008 glory.
He has drawn respect from players and coaching peers, with Brazil superstar Ronaldinho moved to declare: "Anyone with an interest in soccer understands that Hiddink is a magnificent achiever and someone whose names stand for perpetual success. He is one of the top four or five coaches in the world."
And Manchester United's Ji-Sung Park, who played for Hiddink with PSV and South Korea, is even more fulsome in his praise.
He claims brief words of praise from Hiddink about his mental strength when he was injured transformed his career.
Park says in his autobiography: "If it was not for coach Hiddink, I would not be where I am now.
"Within a minute, what coach Hiddink said to me changed my life forever. I feel a bit shy thinking about what he would think after reading this, but he is my 'master' and I owe him everything and I won't be able to repay it in my life."
These words may have resonance in Soho Square after many felt the Football Association missed an open goal when they failed to appoint Hiddink as Sven-Goran Eriksson's successor and appointed Steve McClaren.
The irony was lost on no-one when Hiddink's Russia finished ahead of McClaren's England in the race to Euro 2008.
And no-one should dismiss the possibility of Hiddink finally claiming a major international honour with Russia.
606: DEBATE
Get involved in the debate over Russia's Euro chances
BBC Sport Euro 2008 pundit Pat Nevin has observed his career and methods closely and sees him as the main reason for Russian optimism as they await the start of Euro 2008.
He said: "I can see them getting to the final. They have an outstanding coach in Guus Hiddink. He is the man. On ability he is the best there is along with Sir Alex Ferguson. He managed to take South Korea to the World Cup semi-finals in 2002, so imagine what he could do with a team as gifted as Russia.
"Sure South Korea were at home, but what he did with them was a phenomenal achievement. Their style of play was superb, all the players clearly had great faith in them and no-one enjoyed playing against them.
"Hiddink is a very clever coach. He gets his players together, realises what they are best at and then decides the system. He doesn't go in there and impose a Hiddink system on players, he does what is best for the team. He has got a tremendous track record and I'm a real admirer."
The Dutchman is the master of making players believe they can scale previously unachieved heights, and his ability to gel a collection of individuals into a team with minimum preparation makes him an outstanding international operator.
Hiddink is bold tactically, has shown a happy knack of producing winning teams even when stars have been absent, is almost as fanatical about what his players do when they do not have the ball as when they have it, and is no respecter of reputations.
Ronaldinho
Hiddink is a magnificent achiever and someone whose names stand for perpetual success - Ronaldinho
He tackled a Dutch dressing room full of egos at Euro 96 and demonstrated his strength by dismissing star player Edgar Davids from the camp - an indicator of his fanatical devotion to team spirit.
Hiddink's stature as a national hero in Russia is a far cry from the controversy that greeted his appointment, with former Russian manager Valery Gazzayev saying: "I strongly believe that just being a good coach is not enough to lead our national team.
"You must be a real patriot, thoroughly understand our national identity, character and traditions, and for that you must be born here."
Hiddink answered in the way he knows best - winning games and helped by support from fellow countryman Dick Advocaat, who recently led Zenit St Petersburg to Uefa Cup triumph.
Advocaat told Hiddink's Russian critics: "Guus's record shows he is a world-class coach. You should be very happy to have him here."
And if he gets it right at another major tournament, they may have even greater reason to be grateful for his presence at the end of Euro 2008.
The 61-year-old Dutchman's impressive CV stretches from winning PSV Eindhoven's first European Cup in 1988 to achieving the remarkable feat of taking South Korea to the World Cup semi-final in 2002.
He took his home country to the last four of France 98 and cemented his reputation by taking part-time charge of Australia and guiding the Socceroos to the last 16 of the 2006 World Cup, where they lost cruelly to an injury-time penalty against Italy.
Hiddink was hailed as a national hero in South Korea when he gave the co-hosts their greatest moment six years ago.
And he has now achieved similar status in Russia, where his face adorns buildings around Moscow and he has even drawn rare public words of affection from prime minister Vladimir Putin
HIDDINK FACTFILE
1946 Born 8 Nov in Wisch
1984 Appointed assistant manager at PSV Eindhoven. Becomes manager in 1986
1988 Hiddink leads PSV to first European Cup win
1995 Holland coach. Reaches quarter-finals of Euro 96, and World Cup 98 semis
1998 Takes over at Real Madrid. Wins World Club Cup
2001 Becomes South Korea national coach and leads them to 2002 World Cup semi-finals
2002 Returns to PSV
2005-06 Australia coach, takes them to 2006 World Cup last 16
2006-present Takes Russia to Euro 2008
Hiddink hopes to cement his reputation as a coaching great and crown his glittering career by guilding Russia to Euro 2008 glory.
He has drawn respect from players and coaching peers, with Brazil superstar Ronaldinho moved to declare: "Anyone with an interest in soccer understands that Hiddink is a magnificent achiever and someone whose names stand for perpetual success. He is one of the top four or five coaches in the world."
And Manchester United's Ji-Sung Park, who played for Hiddink with PSV and South Korea, is even more fulsome in his praise.
He claims brief words of praise from Hiddink about his mental strength when he was injured transformed his career.
Park says in his autobiography: "If it was not for coach Hiddink, I would not be where I am now.
"Within a minute, what coach Hiddink said to me changed my life forever. I feel a bit shy thinking about what he would think after reading this, but he is my 'master' and I owe him everything and I won't be able to repay it in my life."
These words may have resonance in Soho Square after many felt the Football Association missed an open goal when they failed to appoint Hiddink as Sven-Goran Eriksson's successor and appointed Steve McClaren.
The irony was lost on no-one when Hiddink's Russia finished ahead of McClaren's England in the race to Euro 2008.
And no-one should dismiss the possibility of Hiddink finally claiming a major international honour with Russia.
606: DEBATE
Get involved in the debate over Russia's Euro chances
BBC Sport Euro 2008 pundit Pat Nevin has observed his career and methods closely and sees him as the main reason for Russian optimism as they await the start of Euro 2008.
He said: "I can see them getting to the final. They have an outstanding coach in Guus Hiddink. He is the man. On ability he is the best there is along with Sir Alex Ferguson. He managed to take South Korea to the World Cup semi-finals in 2002, so imagine what he could do with a team as gifted as Russia.
"Sure South Korea were at home, but what he did with them was a phenomenal achievement. Their style of play was superb, all the players clearly had great faith in them and no-one enjoyed playing against them.
"Hiddink is a very clever coach. He gets his players together, realises what they are best at and then decides the system. He doesn't go in there and impose a Hiddink system on players, he does what is best for the team. He has got a tremendous track record and I'm a real admirer."
The Dutchman is the master of making players believe they can scale previously unachieved heights, and his ability to gel a collection of individuals into a team with minimum preparation makes him an outstanding international operator.
Hiddink is bold tactically, has shown a happy knack of producing winning teams even when stars have been absent, is almost as fanatical about what his players do when they do not have the ball as when they have it, and is no respecter of reputations.
Ronaldinho
Hiddink is a magnificent achiever and someone whose names stand for perpetual success - Ronaldinho
He tackled a Dutch dressing room full of egos at Euro 96 and demonstrated his strength by dismissing star player Edgar Davids from the camp - an indicator of his fanatical devotion to team spirit.
Hiddink's stature as a national hero in Russia is a far cry from the controversy that greeted his appointment, with former Russian manager Valery Gazzayev saying: "I strongly believe that just being a good coach is not enough to lead our national team.
"You must be a real patriot, thoroughly understand our national identity, character and traditions, and for that you must be born here."
Hiddink answered in the way he knows best - winning games and helped by support from fellow countryman Dick Advocaat, who recently led Zenit St Petersburg to Uefa Cup triumph.
Advocaat told Hiddink's Russian critics: "Guus's record shows he is a world-class coach. You should be very happy to have him here."
And if he gets it right at another major tournament, they may have even greater reason to be grateful for his presence at the end of Euro 2008.
Euro 2008 build-up
Not long now - it's even catching on in Malaysia where pedestrians in Kuala Lumpur walk past a giant Uefa Euro 2008 billboard
Trinidad & Tobago 0-3 England
England were comfortable winners in their friendly at Trinidad & Tobago.
Gareth Barry put them ahead when he finished off a move involving Stewart Downing and Wayne Bridge to volley home his first goal for England
Four minutes later Downing laid on the second for Jermain Defoe to tuck past T&T keeper Clayton Ince.
Defoe got his second when a David Bentley cross fell kindly for him to volley past but he fired his hat-trick chance wide of the mark.
It was a second routine win in five days for England coach Fabio Capello, who will have been pleased with a professional performance from his side on a difficult pitch and in unusual conditions.
England's professionalism pleased Capello
Some criticised the decision to fly thousands of miles for a friendly against opposition of questionable qualities at this stage of the season.
But Capello was able to get a good look at plenty of his fringe players in what turned out to be a relatively competitive environment at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Trinidad & Tobago had talked about gaining some revenge for the defeat in their World Cup meeting two years ago.
But any chance of an upset in a game arranged to mark the centenary of football in Trinidad & Tobago lasted just over quarter of an hour
EBATE: 606
What are we going to learn from playing James in a friendly?
bizefc
The home side had already lost star striker Kenwyne Jones of Sunderland to a knee ligament injury when they fell behind after 12 minutes.
Downing sent Bridge clear down the left and he picked out Barry, who steered the ball past Ince with his left foot from inside the area.
The second came four minutes later with Middlesbrough's Downing sending Defoe clean through on goal and he kept his head to tuck home his first goal for England since September 2006.
It looked like England could threaten a cricket score on the Caribbean island but the Soca Warriors enjoyed their best spell of the game.
They caused some nervous moments at the back, with the pace and skill of Sunderland's Carlos Edwards and the bulk of Southampton striker Stern John making sure this would be no holiday for the England defence.
Beckham was surprised to captain the side
Edwards was involved in their best move of the match, setting up Darryl Roberts after some good work from Khaleem Hyland down the left, but Roberts' shot was easily held by David James.
Defoe and Dean Ashton missed chances to add to the scoreline before the half-time interval signalled the start of a glut of changes.
One of the new additions was Bentley, who took over from England's stand-in skipper David Beckham to set up the third goal.
The Blackburn star sent in a right-wing cross which T&T could not clear and Defoe was handed the simple task of volleying past Ince.
Defoe should have scored his first international hat-trick only to miscue wide but then combined brilliantly with his second-half strike partner Peter Crouch for one of the best passing moves of the game, but the Liverpool striker was denied by a sprawling Ince.
A noisy home crowd of 25,001 got their wish when their favourite Dwight Yorke was handed a 15-minute run out.
He was unable to mark his brief return from international retirement with a goal but it was still smiles all round for the home nation, and for Capello for a job well done.
England's players will now head off on holiday after a long season, although they will wish it was not all over with Euro 2008 kicking off in less than a week
Gareth Barry put them ahead when he finished off a move involving Stewart Downing and Wayne Bridge to volley home his first goal for England
Four minutes later Downing laid on the second for Jermain Defoe to tuck past T&T keeper Clayton Ince.
Defoe got his second when a David Bentley cross fell kindly for him to volley past but he fired his hat-trick chance wide of the mark.
It was a second routine win in five days for England coach Fabio Capello, who will have been pleased with a professional performance from his side on a difficult pitch and in unusual conditions.
England's professionalism pleased Capello
Some criticised the decision to fly thousands of miles for a friendly against opposition of questionable qualities at this stage of the season.
But Capello was able to get a good look at plenty of his fringe players in what turned out to be a relatively competitive environment at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Trinidad & Tobago had talked about gaining some revenge for the defeat in their World Cup meeting two years ago.
But any chance of an upset in a game arranged to mark the centenary of football in Trinidad & Tobago lasted just over quarter of an hour
EBATE: 606
What are we going to learn from playing James in a friendly?
bizefc
The home side had already lost star striker Kenwyne Jones of Sunderland to a knee ligament injury when they fell behind after 12 minutes.
Downing sent Bridge clear down the left and he picked out Barry, who steered the ball past Ince with his left foot from inside the area.
The second came four minutes later with Middlesbrough's Downing sending Defoe clean through on goal and he kept his head to tuck home his first goal for England since September 2006.
It looked like England could threaten a cricket score on the Caribbean island but the Soca Warriors enjoyed their best spell of the game.
They caused some nervous moments at the back, with the pace and skill of Sunderland's Carlos Edwards and the bulk of Southampton striker Stern John making sure this would be no holiday for the England defence.
Beckham was surprised to captain the side
Edwards was involved in their best move of the match, setting up Darryl Roberts after some good work from Khaleem Hyland down the left, but Roberts' shot was easily held by David James.
Defoe and Dean Ashton missed chances to add to the scoreline before the half-time interval signalled the start of a glut of changes.
One of the new additions was Bentley, who took over from England's stand-in skipper David Beckham to set up the third goal.
The Blackburn star sent in a right-wing cross which T&T could not clear and Defoe was handed the simple task of volleying past Ince.
Defoe should have scored his first international hat-trick only to miscue wide but then combined brilliantly with his second-half strike partner Peter Crouch for one of the best passing moves of the game, but the Liverpool striker was denied by a sprawling Ince.
A noisy home crowd of 25,001 got their wish when their favourite Dwight Yorke was handed a 15-minute run out.
He was unable to mark his brief return from international retirement with a goal but it was still smiles all round for the home nation, and for Capello for a job well done.
England's players will now head off on holiday after a long season, although they will wish it was not all over with Euro 2008 kicking off in less than a week
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