Neville won't give up on Euro 2008 finals

Updated 12.22 Tue Oct 23 2007
Keywords: Croatia, Russia, Phil Neville, Everton, England, Euro 2008, football, sport

Phil Neville is backing England to defy the odds and qualify for Euro 2008 despite their 2-1 defeat in Russia.

Group E leaders Croatia need just a point from their remaining two qualifiers to book their place in next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland.

"I think Israel will do us a favour against Russia and I am still really positive we will get through" - Phil Neville

And if Russia beat Israel in Tel Aviv on November 17 and whipping boys Andorra four days later, England will have failed to qualify for their first major tournament since the 1994 World Cup in the USA leaving Steve McClaren's position as head coach in doubt.

But Everton skipper Neville is refusing to be downbeat, telling reporters: "I still believe we will qualify.

"I think Israel will do us a favour against Russia and I am still really positive we will get through."

Israel held Steve McClaren's men to a 0-0 draw in Tel Aviv and England will be hoping Guus Hiddink's men slip up to let them back if they can beat Croatia at Wembley on November 21.

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