Coach Capello thinks "The Grove" is too swanky for England team
By Staff
ani-Staff
London, Feb.6 : England coach Fabio Capello has decided not to allow his players to stay at their favourite hotel -- The Grove -- because he thinks it is too swanky.
The Grove with its health spa and world-renowned golf courses set in vast parkland, is a bad place to foster team spirit because of the many distractions, The Sun quoted sources close to Capello, as saying.
He is now on the lookout for a smaller place where he can keep a close eye on the players as they prepare for international matches.
The 227-room hotel, set in 300 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, has been used as the England team base for home internationals for the past two years. Former England skipper David Beckham is said to have loved the place because of its secluded grounds.
An insider said: "Becks loved the Grove and his opinions used to hold a lot of sway. Players were free to make the most of the facilities and roam about the grounds but Capello is putting his foot down and won't allow it."
The new England manager has already cracked the whip by banning the stars from using the hotel's facilities to avoid contact with the public.
Usual hangers-on, including relatives, WAGs, agents and promoters have been told to stay away and the squad was given a list of strict rules to adhere to. The players are staying at the fivestar Grove while they prepare for tonight's friendly against Switzerland.
Capello's other options for a team base include Sopwell House in nearby St Albans and Burnham Beeches at Windsor, Berks. Both have been used by England squads in the past.
ANI
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Story first published: Thursday, August 24, 2017, 16:12 [IST]