England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90,000

Mac gives Woody hope

02 Oct 2006 - 12:24:08

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England head coach Steve McClaren has confirmed that Jonathan Woodgate is close to winning a recall into the national team.

The 26-year-old Real Madrid defender returned to England in August on a season-long loan to Middlesbrough and has impressed so far with his performances for Gareth Southgate's out-of-sorts team.

McClaren opted not to include Woodgate in his squad for this month's Euro 2008 qualifiers against FYR Macedonia and Croatia, but admitted: "He's one we're looking at.

"He's playing well but his games have been limited and he has to build up that kind of fitness over a season."

McClaren has also been impressed with Andy Johnson's current form and the Everton striker was once again on the score-sheet in Saturday's draw against Manchester City.

"When you look at the strikers, Jermain Defoe has come in and played three and done very well when he's played with Peter Crouch," the former Middlesbrough boss added.

"But, for me, Andy Johnson is the one who's really coming through. He's got his head at Everton. I thought it was a terrific signing. He's blossoming. He's started the season well.

"I've seen him two or three times and he's really impressed me with his work-ethic and the way he works for the team.

"He's really pushing the strikers very hard. He deserves his place in the squad and he's knocking on the door to get in the team."