McClaren asks for answers
27 Oct 2006 - 11:20:04
Coach Steve McClaren has held a series of meetings with his players to canvass opinion on why England were beaten by Croatia in a Euro 2008 qualifier last month.
McClaren, who cancelled a planned trip to the US in the immediate aftermath of the defeat in Zagreb and the goalless draw with FYR Macedonia just days before, has travelled to training grounds around the country to seek the feedback of key members of his squad.
McClaren is keen to keep close contact with his players and, with the national team not in action until November 15, he has held meetings in London and the north-west during the past seven days.
The sessions are believed to have taken place on an informal basis with players encouraged to air their views on the recent poor run of results.
At the sessions, the England coach was present alongside his assistant Terry Venables, psychologist and former Middlesbrough assistant Bill Beswick, plus goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence.
