McClaren calls for pride

Koen Freriks

10 oktober 2006, 17:20

England manager Steve McClaren has called for an "English performance" of pride, passion, attitude and character when they face Croatia in Zagreb on Wednesday.

McClaren's side are under pressure to impress in the Euro 2008 qualifier after a lacklustre goalless draw with Macedonia at Old Trafford on Saturday. And McClaren said: "I know exactly in my mind what team I will play. We're looking at one or two little niggles after training. This will be the sign of a good team; the reaction after a disappointing result and performance.

"I said after the Macedonia game the reaction from the players has to be positive and I'm looking for an English performance - a performance of pride, passion, attitude and character. I'll be picking a team that epitomises that. This is a big, big test for the team. Afterwards I'll know a bit more about them but I know the pride and the attitude they have got in playing for England. I want to see that pride and passion above all."