McClaren refuses to panic

Updated 10.09 Fri Aug 24 2007

Keywords: Euro 2008, Wembley, Germany, Steve McClaren, Paul Robinson, England, football, sport

Steve McClaren is refusing to panic ahead of next month's back-to-back Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Russia after Germany beat England 2-1 at Wembley.

McClaren was without a whole host of players for England's first international action of the season, while skipper John Terry, David Beckham and Michael Owen played despite badly lacking match practice.

"I'm disappointed with the goals but this isn't a night to publicly state anything about the team in the future" - Steve McClaren

The England boss reflected: "It was a friendly; a preparation game for Israel and Russia, which are the main focus. It gave us a chance to look at one or two things and check on one or two personnel.

"We know a lot more than we did before and in two weeks' time, we will be in far better shape than we are at the present moment."

McClaren is anxious for his men to eradicate the mistakes which he felt gifted Germany their win on Wednesday as he bids to guide England to next summer's European Championship finals in Austria and Switzerland.

Goalkeeper Paul Robinson was guilty of a blunder when he gifted Kevin Kuranyi Germany's equaliser and there is much debate as to whether he will be axed in favour of David James.

McClaren, who has challenged Robinson to prove he has the mental strength to respond, knows only too well the abilities Portsmouth stopper James possess.

The England boss said: "If I had any doubts about David, I would not have brought him back in. His reaction since being left out of the squad has been very good.

"His form for Portsmouth last year and his performances so far this season have warranted him coming back into the squad."