Barry: We have confidence in Capello

Gareth Barry claims the England players have faith in manager Fabio Capello while insisting he is as hungry as ever for international glory.

England tackle Bulgaria in their first competitive match since the World Cup before heading into a tricky encounter with Switzerland on September 7.

With England’s humiliating World Cup display still taking its toll in the media, Capello has come under great pressure and criticism for his pragmatic approach.

However, Barry has joined teammate Rio Ferdinand, who defended Capello earlier this month, in keeping his faith in the Italian tactician.

“Everyone is right behind the manager,” said the Manchester City midfielder.

“I firmly believe the players and manager can go on and do great things. He is still the man to take England forward.”

Although the pressure is intense on Capello to change his no-nonsense approach after a horrific World Cup campaign, Barry says he cannot see any difference in Capello’s style.

“I have not noticed anything different,” he said.

“He still wants us to play at a high tempo but the whole squad is pretty relaxed.

“Everything is pretty chilled there so there are not too many changes.

“We just want to get the results right. That is going to be what makes people happy.”

Arsenal team-mates Theo Walcott and Kieran Gibbs bring youth to the present set-up, as does Adam Johnson, who is impressing alongside Barry at big-spending Manchester City.

“Adam could really make his mark,” said Barry.

“He joined us in the middle of last season, came into the team full of confidence and hasn’t stopped since.

“He has kept improving with every game. The more he plays at this level, the better he will become.”

With 40 caps to his name, Barry denies he has lost any of his hunger for international glory.

“I am as hungry to be involved as ever,” he said.

“I want to stay in this set-up and be around for as long as possible.

“I want to try and get as many caps as I can and hopefully have some success with England too.

“I am looking forward to these two games but I also feel extra responsibility.

“As an experienced member of the squad I have to recognise there are a lot of young players here who are going to need help at times.

“The lessons we have learned from the World Cup we have to try and use to help the young players and the team going forward.”