But Capello's optimism comes after a comfortable 2-0 victory over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, which was followed by the thrilling performance on Tuesday against a Ghana side boasting eight of the players who so nearly progressed to the last four of the World Cup.

One player left confused by getting a call-up from Capello is Danny Welbeck, the Manchester United striker currently on loan at Sunderland.

Ghana have tried for two years to persuade Welbeck to pledge his future to the country of his parents' birth, and the striker was booed by Black Stars fans when making his England debut as a late substitute during the 1-1 draw at Wembley on Tuesday.

When told by a Ghanaian journalist he could still change allegiance because the match was not competitive, Welbeck said: 'I didn't know. I'd definitely have a think about it.'

Sportsmail understands the  20-year-old would prefer an international career with England but said his debut 'was bitter-sweet'. He said: '(Sunderland and Ghana players) Asamoah Gyan and John Mensah have been in my ear, but I've represented England at every youth level up.'

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