Alot has been said about Steven Mclaren’s ability to take England through the qualification stage of the Euro 2008 Championship. The day of reckoning has arrived, and it wasn’t without a dramatic turn of fate when Hiddink’s Russia went to Israel in total pole position to qualify, only to suffer the setback of all setbacks; suffering a goal in the final minute and lose to Israel. With Russia’s 3 dropped points, England could not believe their luck. A lifeline. Truly a sign from the heavens that England must participate in the Euro 2008.

As a rampant soccer fan and Premier League supporter, I do want to see England participate in this tournament. Without them, it would be similar to having an Olympics without the USA, or fries without ketchup.  It will do the game good and raise the profile of soccer globally to see England not only qualify but to be successful in the tournament.

From a personal point of view, I’d also like to see England justify the price tag of British football talent. On paper England’s squad probably exceeds a value of 500 million Euros (if you factor in Beckham’s current Galaxy contract). They have been given the chance to prove their worth on various global competitions and have yet to show anything for their efforts.

With Sven gone, I do not believe England have improved under new coach Mclaren. Their performances have been somewhat inconsistent, and regardless of today’s result, I do not think Mclaren will stay as coach.

Croatia has qualified already. Russia’s 2-1 defeat in Israel ensured England only need a draw tonight to qualify, while Croatia’s 2-0 loss in Macedonia means a two-goal win would take McClaren’s men through to the finals as section winners.

I believe England will show their worth today. The fans will be behind them, the stage is set for an amazing qualifying match that will be played as a final.

Good luck England.

For England Match details visit the England Match page:

WG.