David James has hinted some England players had their minds on club before country as they slumped to defeat against Australia.

England's senior players have been heavily criticised for their performance in the first half of the 3-1 defeat against Australia at Upton Park.

And with the FA Cup fifth round confrontation between Manchester United and Arsenal looming at Old Trafford, it has been suggested England was not a priority for some stars.

West Ham United goalkeeper James said: "I'm not going to say my mind was focused on anything else because it wasn't.

"But I think that, arguably, some people have had interests elsewhere, I don't know.

"I'm not saying other people's minds were elsewhere, but it could be possible, couldn't it? Yes."

But England captain David Beckham insisted the criticism was unjustified, and said: "When you pull on an England shirt you are not worried about the next game."

Australia captain, Leeds United midfield man Paul Okon, appeared to side with James.

He said: "I think perhaps we were slightly more focused than the England side. It looked to me like there were a few of them who had their minds on games at the weekend."