Young backs McClaren

Villa striker wants more international chances

By Peter O'Rourke EXCLUSIVE   Last updated: 21st November 2007   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Young backs McClaren

Young: Praise for England boss McClaren

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Ashley Young says Steve McClaren has the backing of the whole England squad ahead of Wednesday's crucial Euro 2008 qualifier with Croatia.

McClaren's future has been the subject of intense speculation as England struggle to qualify for Austria and Switzerland.

Israel did England and McClaren a favour on Saturday by beating Russia to put England's qualifying hopes back in their own hands.

England require only a point in their final qualifier against Croatia to reach next summer's finals and Aston Villa ace Young is confident they will finish the job off.

Backing

McClaren handed Young his debut against Austria last Friday and the former Watford man says all the players are behind McClaren.

"100 per cent all the players have got the backing of the manager and we want to see him in there," Young told skysports.com

"He is a good manager; just look at the results we have had in the qualifiers.

"We have had one disappointing result and I think we will qualify."

Young admitted it has been a dream to be involved in the last few England squads.

"As a boy you have always wanted to represent your country," added Young.

"I have enjoyed it and I want more involvement in that."