Sunday, October 15, 2006

Don't judge McClaren now

Video Safari

England boss Steve McClaren says the critics shouldn't judge him until the end of the Euro2008 qualifying campaign.

McClaren was widely blamed for changing to a 3-5-2 formation as England's bid to reach the finals faltered after a 2-0 defeat by Croatia in Zagreb.
"The job I have taken on is qualifying for Euro 2008, so I should be judged at the end of that period," said McClaren.
"A good manager would qualify with these players. I'm not contemplating resigning. I feel we will get there."
McClaren believes it is vital he implements new tactics but understands why the England supporters vented their frustration in Croatia.
"Along the way we're going to hit rocks because we need to try things," he added.
"But it's not as if I'm stuck here in a muddle not knowing where I am and over the coming
games and months, hopefully we'll address these problems.
"I understand why the fans are angry and the demand for a performance is always there.
"But the expectation level in the dressing room is we have to qualify."
The former Middlesbrough manager reiterated that he has no intention of standing down.
He said: "I've every confidence in us qualifying, so I'm not thinking about walking away.
"And it's too early to talk about me being sacked. It's where you end up, not where we are at the present time."