Hodgson: Bring it on

15 October 2013 01:16

Roy Hodgson looked ahead to the game that will define his time as England coach and declared: 'Bring it on.'

After guiding his side through an unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign, England face Poland in their final match knowing victory is essential to book a direct trip to next summer's finals in Brazil.

The safety net of a play-off place dangles below should Hodgson get it wrong but he knows that two-legged lottery offers no guarantees.

To be certain, England must win.

"We can do no more," he said. "We've prepared. We're ready. Bring it on."

So bullish ahead of Friday's win over Montenegro, Hodgson has retained his confidence.

Yet, not for him the veneer of impregnability some choose to adopt in such situations.

Hodgson's nerves were shown in the raw when he was biting his nails on the bench as England reached half-time without a goal in their last outing.

And he was not prepared to claim the hours before kick-off will pass serenely by on Tuesday.

"I'm a worrier," he said.

Source: PA