Fabio Capello has leapt to the defence of Ashley Cole after England's 5-1 victory over Kazakhstan.
England boss frustrated by Wembley boo-boys
Fabio Capello has leapt to the defence of Ashley Cole after the defender was targeted by the England boo-boys in the 5-1 World Cup qualifying victory over Kazakhstan.
Cole was at fault for the visitors' consolation goal at Wembley as the Chelsea full-back's loose pass across his own goal allowed Zhambyi Kukeyev to score.
England were 2-0 up at the time of Cole's blunder courtesy of a Rio Ferdinand header and an own goal from Alexandr Kuchma, while a Wayne Rooney brace and a late Jermain Defoe strike sealed the three points in Group 6.
But Cole still received criticism as England fans let out their frustrations as Capello's side recorded a scoreline which flattered their performance.
And manager Capello has urged supporters to back their team, saying: "I couldn't understand the crowd booing Ashley Cole after he made a mistake.
Mistake
"It is possible for one player to make mistake. It is very important that the crowd help him and not boo him.
"But the crowd was very strong for us. After the first half, they helped us a lot."
Capello admitted England struggled in the first half with a 4-3-3 formation, which is why he brought on Shaun Wright-Phillips for Gareth Barry at half-time and reverted to 4-4-2.
He said: "We needed a speedy player on the left, and he did very well. In the first half we played too quick, tried to get the ball forward immediately and made too many mistakes.
"In the second half Rooney played nearer (Emile) Heskey and he played very well. After the first 45 minutes, I was not happy.
Danger
"Kazakhstan had two chances in the match, but it is normal in international matches that opponents have chances to score goals."
Capello revealed John Terry may have recovered from his back injury in time to face Belarus on Wednesday.
"I hope he will be okay," he said.
"Belarus are a good team. I saw them play against Ukraine; they are a dangerous team who play well. It will be a dangerous game."
