ZURICH. Nov 10: English football is 30 years out of date according to FIFA general secretary Sepp Blatter. reports AFP.

Reflecting on England’s probable failure to reach the World Cup finals, Blatter told the Swiss weekly Sport the underlying reason was a failure to develop young players' technique.

In contrast. Norway, who have qualified at England's expense. "Train their players in a modern fashion." Blatter said.

"In England, physical training dominates and they are still playing kick and rush football like 30 years ago.

"Last March I matched the Tottenham Chelsea match. I was appalled by the poor technique of players, incapable of killing a high ball without it bouncing four metres off their feet."

Blatter's onslaught brought a stinging response from Grahman Kelly, the chief exec-utive of the Football Association.

"I didn't see much evidence of kick and rush when Norwich beat Bayern Munich with thoughtful, measured football last week." Kelly said.

"I'm sure Arsenal didn't get 10 goals against Standard Liege

with kick and rush football. And even though Manchester United went out pf the European Cup you couldn't accuse them of playing kick and rush football.

“Beauty is in the eye of the

beholder. English football Is highly valued television around the world, more even than the Italian or German game

Kelly was also surprised by Blatter's questioning of the British role on the International Board, the body which authorises rule changes.

Blatter called for changes in the board's composition of a delegate from the English. Scottish. Welsh and Northern Irish associations plus four FIFA delegates.

"Times have changed. We have to make the board more international." Blatter said.

Kelly responded: "Over the last few years we have had a good relationship with FIFA on the international board." he said. "There is no question of us being obstructive or conservative.

"England and Scotland instigated an initiative against the professional foul and we were happy to go along with FIFA on the backpass law.

"Developments in the game are moving faster now than at any time and we have not been backward playing a part In that.

"There would be great concern over any move to influence an association that is very much for the good. The experience of the British nations is of paramount importance and invaluable to the world game."