Steve McClaren believes that England players must keep cool and composed away in Montenegro tonight, if they want a positive result.
The last time England played in Pogdorica, they secured qualification to Euro 2012 with a 2-2 draw, which was overshadowed by Wayne Rooney’s red card. The Manchester United striker was sent off for a petulant swipe, which nearly jeopardised England’s qualification hopes, and talk from the Montenegrin camp this week has been about how the home crowd will antagonise the 26 year old.
McClaren has been in charge of England before, in a calamitous one year spell which saw him fail to lead England to Euro 2008, and has called on the Three Lions to pose good mental strength and make sure they leave Pogdorica still undefeated in their group.
“It’s a great test of their mentality, combating the outside elements like the atmosphere, fans and the on-field intimidation from playing these big European teams. Every England player must be aware that to reach their potential, they have to play with emotional control, discipline and make sure England do not have to play a game with ten men”, McClaren said.
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