McClaren defends friendlies

My Account
Logout

Create an Evening Standard Account

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Welcome! Sign in here

Use your social network

Save time by using your existing account to sign in to Evening Standard

We'll never share your information or post anything to your account without your permission

Forgot your password ?

Registration

* indicates fields that are mandatory

Email *

Password *

Confirm Password *

First name *

Surname *

Postcode *

Country *

Mobile phone number

Username *

Gender *

Year of birth *

When you sign up...

You will have access to all our online competitions, discounted offers and can post comments on our site.

You will also receive The Weekender newsletter sent every Thursday - it’s full of fantastic offers and ideas for the weekend. You can update your email preferences in your account page when you log in.

Other newsletters and emails

Homes & Property Newsletter - Yes I want to receive the weekly email with all the latest news on property in the capital

Occasionally we would also like to send you relevant emails detailing specific offers either from ourselves or carefully selected partners. If you would prefer not to receive these then please tick the appropriate boxes below. We will never pass on your details.

I do not want to receive additional offers and information from the Evening Standard

I do not want to receive additional offers and information sent by Evening Standard on behalf of carefully selected partners

Terms and Conditions

* I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of Evening Standard

Registration

Mail Sent for Registration Confirmation.

A confirmation email has been sent. Please activate your account by clicking on the activation link sent in your mail box.

The national team lined up against five-times world champions Brazil in June and take on Germany next Wednesday as McClaren assesses his options ahead of two crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers next month.

Scroll down to read more:

Friendly fire: Steve McClaren

He believes the level of opposition is important to ensure players are up for the fight after friendlies were derided under his predecessor Sven-Goran Eriksson as pointless exercises punctuated by constant substitutions.

McClaren told BBC Radio Five Live: "We did make a policy that they were going to be tough friendlies.

"I've been involved with England for six years now and friendlies have always been a bone of contention for everybody, but I do think playing teams like Holland, Spain, Germany, not only inspires the fans but also the players want to play in these big games.

"That was proved in the Brazil game at Wembley. It was a fantastic occasion for the fans and the players, and the players actually gave a great performance and we need to take that on. "England v Germany is always a big game. That should inspire the players and should inspire the fans."