SIR Trevor Brooking used Friday's launch of the Kent County Football Association's five-year strategy for grass roots development to condemn parental pride that turns men and women into touchline tyrants.

Interrupting talks over Fabio Capello's appointment as England team manager, the FA's director of development was at County Hall, Maidstone, to endorse the KCFA's blueprint for improving the grass roots game.

Speaking without notes, he waded into the problems caused by indiscipline among parents watching their children.

He said: "Abusive parents are not helping the development of young players - the internationals of tomorrow.

"As a boy, I was fortunate that when I came home from school I would drop my bag in the hall and go out and play football in the street, free from interference.

"Today's society dictates that is not possible. But wherever young people play football, they should be able to do so without a parent getting carried away and shouting and screaming.

"The only voice a young player should hear is that of the coach. It's essential that youngsters are able to enjoy their football without pressure.

"To combat this problem we need more quality coaches to take the intensity out of playing the game. The fun factor should not be squeezed out."