Wenger tells of England hope

Gunners boss optimistic Steve McClaren's men can qualify

By James Dall   Last updated: 16th November 2007

Arsene Wenger

Wenger: Optimistic

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is optimistic that England can still qualify for Euro 2008.

England's qualification hopes are no longer in their hands, with Steve McClaren sweating on Russia's trip to Israel.

But Wenger believes Russia face a tough task on Saturday, and is sure England are still in with a chance of booking their place in next summer's finals.

"I am positive for England, because I feel it is difficult to win in Israel," he told the club's official website.

"Overall I hope it will go well for England, because I know the discussion which will come out if it does not go well is always the same.

"I feel England have quality and I hope they will go to the European Championships."

Massive blow

However, Wenger feels that should the unthinkable happen, it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

"It would, of course, be a massive blow if they did not make it," he added.

"But it happened to France in 1994 - they did not go to the World Cup, and then won the World Cup in 1998.

"So it would be a massive disappointment, but football will go on.

"Here even the day after a big disappointment, there is always hope for the future, that England can win the next competition.

"That is for me the biggest charm in this country."