Those close to Wayne Rooney are convinced Fabio Capello's strict rules during the World Cup were the cause of the Manchester United striker's listless form.
The Mirror says Capello blamed the players' poor performances in South Africa on them being tired after a long and intense Premier League and Champions League season.
But Capello's training methods, his afternoon lock-downs and his insistence on a bland and spartan diet also helped to sap them of their energy.
The players were used to being given more freedom with their clubs and the change in their routine affected many of them adversely.
Rooney, who carried much of the weight of English expectation on his shoulders, was one of the ones who did not react well to Capello's system.
England insiders were stunned by his listless demeanour at the team base and former Manchester United teammates who kept in touch with him by text during the tournament said it was obvious he was demoralised by the England situation.
