MANCHESTER, Aug 26: Sir Alex Ferguson launched a four-letter attack on the Football Association on Friday claiming they should appreciate how important the club is to the fortunes of the national team.

Up to eight players from the English Premier League champions could be called up by England coach Fabio Capello for next month's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Wales.

As well as Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand, the squad could include youngsters Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley.

Ferguson said: “It is fantastic. The FA may realise who has produced more players for their country than any club in the world.

“Maybe they will get some joy from it and realise how important we are to England instead of treating us like dirt. I am pleased for the players. They are outstanding.”

Ferguson's outburst stems from past problems with the FA, including a touchline ban last season, but more notably the two-match suspension imposed on Rooney for swearing into a television camera after scoring a hat-trick against West Ham United.—AFP