McClaren upbeat on England
25 May 2007 - 08:19:14
England coach Steve McClaren has rejected claims that backing for his mis-firing side is on the wane, but has refused to confirm whether former captain David Beckham is in line for a recall.
England's stuttering form in their Euro 2008 qualification campaign - where they are currently fourth in Group E - has led to barracking from the terraces.
Fans' frustration reached fever pitch as England laboured to a 3-0 win over Andorra during their last qualification outing in March, but McClaren is confident his side will receive backing when the travel to Estonia on June 6.
Before that must-win game, an England B side will take on Albania at Burnley on Friday, before next week's sell-out friendly meeting with Brazil at the new-look Wembley.
"The support of the last two months has been fantastic wherever I have gone," claimed McClaren.
"There is always a concern that you are not delivering what the public want but the show of support has been fantastic for me.
"I have been delighted with the response and there was a great determination in the dressing room after the Andorra game to go on and to win football matches and to stick together.
"Am I worried I have lost the support of the public? It is up to us to make sure we get that. We can't expect anything.
"We have to give performances, win matches and then we will get the support of everyone and we have to do that.
"After Andorra, we have to prove one or two things to a few people. I know there is a great determination in the squad to do that. We are not daunted by the task."
Meanwhile, McClaren has refused to confirm whether Beckham is in line for a dramatic return less than 12 months after being dumped by the former Middlesbrough boss following the World Cup debacle.
The former captain has been in impressive form for club side Real Madrid in recent week but is poised to head for America after agreeing a summer move to MLS side LA Galaxy.
"Does Beckham enter my mind? There are quite a few who do that and you will see on Saturday what the intentions are," said McClaren, referring to Saturday's squad announcement.
"Is the door open for Beckham? I never said it was closed.
"Is there a more in-form midfielder than Beckham? We are talking about issues which aren't here yet and we will deal with them on Saturday if they come up.
"I keep my eye on everyone and David is one I said from day one that his form will be monitored."